SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Book lovers from all over the Coastal Empire and beyond came to Savannah for the opening night of the 2025 Savannah Book Festival (SBF). The keynote speaker was author Anna Quindlen.

“I am so thrilled to be back in Savannah. I’ve visited several times and always look forward to it. I’m really enthralled with the beautiful architecture and delicious Southern food, “Quindlen said just before taking the Lucas Theatre stage in front of a packed house.

Before Quindlen’s sold-out discussion of her newest release, “After Annie,” a book about hope and the unexpected power of adversity to change us in profound and indelible ways, attendees gathered in a tent outside the Lucas Theatre for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Quindlen is one of many successful authors appearing this weekend at the 18th annual SBF. Friday’s headline speaker is Peabody Award-winning author Sebastian Junger. He will discuss his newest book “In My Time of Dying,” the story of his near-death experience. Part medical drama, part searing autobiography, and part rational inquiry into the ultimate unknowable mystery.

On Saturday, all authors will appear at various venues downtown to discuss their books, meet with fans and sign copies of their books. For a complete Festival Saturday schedule, click here.