Speaking of Books Author Series 12th Season Lineup
Get ready for another unforgettable season of the Dr. Audrey Lavin Speaking of Books Author Series! Stark Library is proud to welcome three acclaimed authors and speakers for our 12th season, bringing inspiring stories, thought-provoking conversations and unforgettable experiences to our community.
After a record-breaking 11th season that welcomed more than 5,000 attendees, we're excited to continue connecting readers with some of today's most recognizable voices. Join us as Josh Peck, Mitch Albom and Joan Lunden take the stage to share their personal journeys, bestselling works and unique perspectives.
Josh Peck
September 24, 2026 | Canton Palace Theatre
On September 24, 2026, Speaking of Books Author Series kicks off its 12th season with Josh Peck, author of Happy People Are Annoying, at the Canton Palace Theatre. First known to millions as a beloved Nickelodeon star on Drake & Josh, Peck will share his experiences as a child star and his mental health and recovery.
Mitch Albom
October 27, 2026 | Canton Palace Theatre
On October 27, 2026, the second event in Stark Library’s 12th season, will feature renowned author Mitch Albom. This event will also be held at the Canton Palace Theatre. Albom is considered a worldwide inspiration and will speak about his body of work including his latest New York Times best seller, Twice.
Joan Lunden
March 18, 2027 | First Christian Auditorium
Speaking of Books 12th season will conclude on March 18, 2027, at First Christian Auditorium, with award-winning journalist and bestselling author Joan Lunden. Lunden, a true trailblazer, has been a trusted voice in American homes for 50 years. Over her career she has broken many barriers, and her resilience continues to inspire millions. She will explore her memoir, Joan and talk about her experiences, challenges and moments that shaped her remarkable life and career.
Most Recent Speakers
B.J. Novak
Fall 2025
B.J. Novak is a writer, actor, and comedian best known for his work on NBC’s Emmy Award winning comedy The Office. Since achieving mainstream success, B.J. Novak has added best-selling author to his resume. Novak is author of One More Thing and The Book with No Pictures, which spent two full years on the New York Times Picture Book List and 34 weeks charting as the #1 seller in the country.
Marlee Matlin
Fall 2025
Marlee Matlin received worldwide critical acclaim for her film debut in Children of a Lesser God for which she received the Academy Award for Best Actress. In addition to her film, TV, and stage work, Marlee has also penned three novels for children, as well as her New York Times best-selling autobiography, I’ll Scream Later. Marlee’s journey is an inspiration to everyone, regardless of the barriers they face. As she so aptly stated, “The only thing I can’t do is hear. The rest is there for the taking.”
Terry Virts
Spring 2026
Colonel Terry Virts served in the US Air Force as a fighter pilot, test pilot, and NASA astronaut on two spaceflights. He also famously took more than 319,000 photographs from space—more than any other astronaut. Virts is the author of three books including The Astronaut's Guide to Leaving the Planet and How to Astronaut: An Insider’s Guide to Leaving Planet Earth, which is a firsthand account of his over seven months in space—an experience few will ever know.
Derek Hough
Spring 2026
Season after season, millions of fans tune into Dancing with the Stars to watch three-time Emmy Award winner Derek Hough, the talented, consummate competitor whose skill and commitment made him the show's all- time champion. Hough is the author of New York Times Best-Seller Taking the Lead: Lessons from a Life in Motion. Derek’s extraordinary journey from bullied little boy to accomplished performer shows all of us how we can overcome obstacles and become winners—not just on the dance floor but in life.
Who is Dr. Audrey Lavin?
This series is named in honor of Dr. Audrey Lavin, our own local “celebrity” author, a globe-trotting academic, a champion of writers, and a tireless supporter of the Library.
She has shown unwavering support for the library mission as a Friends of the Library volunteer and by serving on the Library's foundation for many years. Her commitment to the Library, education, and the art of writing makes her the perfect inspiration for this collection of acclaimed authors.
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