The Cultural Review
Section

Books

Reviews, essays, and in-depth features covering literature, fiction, non-fiction, and the world of publishing.

Diverse crowd browsing books at the Community Book Center during ESSENCE Fest, highlighting a vibrant literary culture.
Books

Community Book Center Fuels Literary Culture at ESSENCE Fest

During the first two days of ESSENCE Fest 2026, sales at the Community Book Center surged by 30% compared to last year's opening weekend.

Claire Donovan· Jul 8· 3 min read
Timothy F. Terrell’s Almost Gone, Still Here for Readers Facing Survival, Faith, and Hard Questions

Timothy F. Terrell’s Almost Gone, Still Here for Readers Facing Survival, Faith, and Hard Questions

Sponsored by Timothy F. Terrell · Jul 13
A lively outdoor literary festival with diverse attendees, authors signing books, and stages set up for readings, all under warm evening lights.

Literary Festivals Celebrate Authors and Cultural Impact

Claire Donovan · Jun 24
Overhead view of a sunlit library with a desk covered in manuscripts and a glowing golden award, symbolizing literary arts funding.

Literary Arts Fund Awards $7.7 Million in Grant Funding

Claire Donovan · Jun 4
A diverse audience at a modern literary event, captivated by an author speaking on stage, surrounded by books and an atmosphere of vibrant cultural exchange and intellectual discussion.

Literary Events Celebrate Black Authors and Their Cultural Contributions

Claire Donovan · Apr 10
Adults enjoying a lively Boozy Book Fair in Los Angeles, browsing books and sipping cocktails under warm lights, creating a nostalgic yet modern literary social event.

Boozy Book Fair Event Comes to Los Angeles This Summer

Los Angeles will host the 'Boozy Book Fair' this summer, a unique 21-and-over event. It blends nostalgic book fair charm with adult beverages and interactive literary activities.

Claire Donovan· Apr 9· 5 min
Five diverse young authors, Megan Kamalei Kakimoto, Anika Jade Levy, Carrie R. Moore, Maggie Su, and Stephanie Wambugu, smiling on a stage, celebrating their 5 Under 35 literary awards.

National Book Foundation Reveals 2026 5 Under 35 Honorees

The National Book Foundation has revealed its 2026 5 Under 35 honorees, celebrating five promising debut fiction writers under the age of 35. This prestigious award highlights authors poised to make a lasting impact on American literature.

Claire Donovan· Apr 8· 6 min