Oxford Conference for the Book Celebrates its 30th Anniversary

On April 3rd, 2024, Oxford’s annual conference for literary enthusiasts was initiated with an intrepid spirit, marking 30 years of the city’s most prestigious literary gathering – the Oxford Conference for the Book. The three-day event, scheduled to conclude on April 5th, is being held across various venues throughout Oxford.

The Oxford Conference for the Book, launched in 1993, is an initiative of the University of Mississippi’s Center for the Study of Southern Culture and local bookstore Square Books. The conference aims to shine a spotlight on the works by both established and emerging Southern writers.

A significant chunk of the funding for the conference comes from the Hawthornden Foundation, a private charitable entity that is devoted to the promotion and support of modern authors and literature. “We are committed to using this gift in ways that nurture both writing and reading in North Mississippi. Furthermore, we envision this gift supporting the entire Oxford creative community,” stated Jimmy Thomas, the director of the Oxford Conference for the Book, expressing his gratitude to the foundation’s generosity.

The Oxford Conference: An Interdisciplinary Initiative

The University of Mississippi faculty and various departments have been closely affiliated with the conference since its inception. A conversation with Sheila Sunder, the author of “Habitations,” will be hosted by UM Associate Professor of English Melissa Ginsburg at Off Square Books on Tuesday evening with the inaugural event of the conference: a campus tour led by the UM Slavery Research Group, taking place the following afternoon.

Noteworthy UM faculty involved in the event include writer-in-residence W. Ralph Eubanks, Southern Studies Director Kathryn McKee, and Michael X. Wang.

Key Highlights from the Conference

Most events scheduled for the conference are to take place on Thursday and Friday. Starting from 9:30 am on Thursday, the attendees can look forward to interactive panels, luncheons, and reading sessions held at various locations that include the Overby Center for Southern Journalism and Politics, the Student Union Ballroom, the J.D. Williams Library on the university campus, as well as Square Books and Off Square Books in Oxford.

Furthermore, the National Book Foundation will partner with the conference for a panel called “National Book Awards Presents: Myth Making and Breaking.” The discussion will feature Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah and José Olivarez exploring their works. One of the dinner events will take place alongside Thacker Mountain Radio at the Powerhouse.

Celebrating Literary Excellence

On Friday, an inspiring keynote address will be delivered by award-winning author Andre Dubus III, famous for his novels “The House of Sand and Fog” and “Such Kindness.” His speech will be part of the Oxford Conference for the Book and the Southern Literary Festival, signifying the confluence of two major literary events.

Moreover, the winners of the Willie Morris Awards for Southern Writing will also grace the occasion by reading excerpts from their acclaimed works on Friday at Off Square Books. The session will be followed by a reception featuring live music and book signings.

A Fitting Finale

The conference is set to close with a grand finale named “Postscript: Noir at the Bar,” held at Ajax Diner. The event promises an exciting end to the conference, featuring live music and readings by renowned crime and noir authors.

Reflecting on the conference, it’s clear that Oxford, a city renowned for its rich literary tradition, holds the perfect backdrop for such an event that celebrates contemporary southern authors and literature. For further information, the conference schedule is available on the Oxford Conference for the Book website.