10am-11am – Author Talks 

Underground Books

Join local authors Les Robinson and Anita Gayle Jones as they share their powerful new works. Robinson’s Discovering Daniel Blue explores legacy, faith, and family through the story of Shankle raising six children “with a Bible and a switch,” while Jones’ The Peach Seed delivers a moving Southern family drama about love, secrets, and the lasting impact of history.

Les Robinson “Discovering Daniel Blue: My Search for Significance, Purpose, and Legacy,” readers meet Shankle as she is rearing six children “with a Bible and a switch,” as Robinson writes in his new nonfiction book, which was published in April. 

Anita Gail Jones “The Peach Seed,” The story, which takes place in Anita’s home state of Georgia, is a stirring family drama. Fletcher Dukes and Altovise Benson reunite after five decades apart-and a mountain of secrets-exploring how one family lives amid the present repercussions of personal choice and history’s sweep. An indelible portrait of a family, “The Peach Seed” explores how kin pass down legacies of sorrow, joy, and strength. 

11am-12pm – Writing While Black Panel Discussion

Guild Theater

Join us for this engaging panel discussion with literary professionals as they discuss industry insights from publishing platforms and power including practical tips for aspring authors.  

Panelists include:

• Larry Lee (Sacramento Observer Publisher) (Moderator)
• Carla Bruce-Eddings (Author & Publicist) 
• Julian Newman (Author & Leadership Expert)
• Sheryl Lister  (Author & Publisher)

12pm-1pm – Shop Talk with Shaka Senghor

Guild Theater

Bestselling author, and speaker whose journey from incarceration to transformation has connected with audiences worldwide. Shaka Senghor discusses his new book “How to Be Free” which shows you how to break free from invisible prisons that hold you back—whether from past mistakes, limiting beliefs, or self-imposed barriers. This framework delivers practical tools to build a life of clarity, purpose, and impact.

1pm-2pm – Interview with Regional Education Leaders

Guild Theater

Sac State President Luke Wood and UC Davis Chancellor Gary May join former Mayor Kevin Johnson to discuss the state of education and to make a special announcement. 

2pm-3pm – Speaker Series Featuring Victoria Rowell 

Guild Theater

Victoria Rowell is best known for her 14-year role as Drucilla Winters on The Young & the Restless and her role in Diagnosis Murder with Dick Van Dyke. She has also appeared in films alongside Jim Carrey, Samuel L. Jackson, and Diane Keaton. Beyond acting, she is an accomplished producer and director through her company, Days Ferry Productions.

This Fireside Chat with Kevin Johnson celebrates the re-release of her memoir The Women Who Raised Me, which tells the remarkable story of her own experience as a foster child and ballerina, and her rise out of the foster care system to achieve the American Dream. The book honors the women who supported her journey and continues to resonate with readers for its message of resilience and inspiration.