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National Book Month champions the importance of reading, writing, and literature every October. This month-long observance encourages everyone to pick up a book, explore new genres, and support authors. Dive into a new story, visit your local library, or join a book club to celebrate.
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Expected National Book Month Deals
Throughout National Book Month, expect publishers, independent bookstores, and online retailers to feature special promotions and events. Look for discounted titles from major publishers like Penguin Random House and HarperCollins, often highlighted by retailers such as Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Many local bookstores host author readings, book signings, and themed events, sometimes offering loyalty program bonuses. Libraries frequently waive late fees or host special challenges. We will update this page with confirmed live deals and literary events as October approaches.
Platform Guide for National Book Month
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalBookMonth. Share insights on the publishing industry or recommend professional development reads.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalBookMonth. Discuss your favorite authors, new releases, or participate in literary conversations.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalBookMonth. Share photos of your current reads, favorite book nooks, or literary-themed art.
National Book Month Hero
Carla Hayden
National Book Month timeline
The National Book Foundation created the first National Book Month in 2003.
​The National Book Foundation created the National Book Awards, to honor the country's top authors each year.
​Palmer Putnam and John Wiley established one of America's first major publishing houses in what would later become the center of the publishing industry: New York City.
Johannes Gutenberg began work on his printing press ​— the first with mechanical movable type. The ability to print anything quickly sparked the Printing Revolution, where knowledge and ideas spread around the world.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Book Month
Local businesses can celebrate National Book Month by creating literary-themed displays or offering book-related discounts. Coffee shops might host open mic poetry nights or feature a ‘book of the week’ paired with a special drink. Independent bookstores can collaborate with local schools for reading challenges or organize author meet-and-greets. Retailers could offer discounts on journals, stationery, or reading accessories, encouraging customers to embrace the joy of literature.
National Book Month FAQs
When is National Book Month?
National Book Month 2026 runs throughout October, from Thursday, October 1, to Saturday, October 31. It’s a full month dedicated to celebrating the written word.
How many books are published each year in the U.S.?
While exact numbers vary, estimates suggest that over a million books are published annually in the United States, including both traditionally published and self-published titles. This vast output reflects a thriving literary landscape.
What is the National Book Foundation?
The National Book Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 1989 to celebrate the best of American literature. It is most famous for administering the National Book Awards, which honor outstanding literary works each year across various categories.
Is National Book Month the same as National Reading Month?
No, National Book Month (October) focuses broadly on literature, authors, and the publishing world, culminating in the National Book Awards. National Reading Month is typically observed in March, coinciding with Dr. Seuss’s birthday, with a focus on encouraging children’s literacy.
How to Observe National Book Month
Start a new book
One of the best ways to celebrate National Book Month is by opening a book you've never read before. It may be your 20th of the year, or your first. Either way, you're embracing what this month is all about.
Share an old book
There are so many powerful, funny, touching and life-changing books out there. Take one of your favorites and share it with someone.
Post on social media
Use #NationalBookMonth to let your friends and followers know what you're up to this month. Tell them what you're reading and why, and encourage them to do the same!
​5 Top American Authors
​Mark Twain (1835 - 1910)
Twain was most famous for "Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," which has been called "the Great American Novel."
​Ernest Hemingway (1899 – 1961)
​Hemingway's classics include "The Sun Also Rises," "A Farewell to Arms," "For Whom the Bell Tolls," and "The Old Man and the Sea."
​Edgar Allen Poe (1809 – 1849)
​Poe is best known for his short stories and dark poetry, including one of his most famous: "The Raven." He is largely viewed as the creator of the detective fiction genre.
John Steinbeck​ (1902 - 1968)
​Steinbeck is most well-known for his work "The Grapes of Wrath." Steinbeck won the 1972 Nobel Prize in Literature.
F. Scott Fitzgerald​ (1896 – 1940)
Fitzgerald was only moderately successful while alive, but has achieved notoriety as one of the best American authors of all time in the decades since. Think "The Great Gatsby."
Why National Book Month is Important
It encourages reading
The ultimate goal of National Book Month is to encourage reading — an activity with many proven benefits. Reading can help anyone develop better vocabulary, improve memory, expand knowledge, and lower stress.
It honors the greatest
National Book Month helps recognize the greatest books and authors, which in turn gives young children diverse role models. It's important to show young people that literature and authors are still relevant and important.
It encourages family time
National Book Month encourages families to enjoy new books together. Reading aloud or discussing new works around the dinner table supports family time and bonding.
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