By Illianna Valenzuela
Tucson Festival of Books 2026. Photo by The University of Arizona Press.
The Tucson Festival of Books returned to the University of Arizona on March 14 and–15, 2026, bringing tens of thousands of readers to campus. Now in its 17th year, the free event drew about 135,000 attendees and featured more than 300 authors, turning the university mall into a busy, book-filled space.
Since its start in 2009, the festival has grown into one of the largest literary events in the country, centered on promoting literacy and access to books.
One of the biggest highlights was R. L. Stine, best known for the Goosebumps series. His session, “Journey to the House of Shivers,” filled quickly on Sunday afternoon, with students and longtime fans eager to hear from the author who shaped their early reading experiences.
Stine spoke about his latest book, “One Night at Camp Bigfoot,” part of his House of Shivers series, and shared how he continues to mix humor with horror to keep younger readers engaged.
Image of R.L. Stine’s new book, House of Shivers. Photo from Book Rack bookstore website.
He also discussed his 2026 standalone novel, “Nightmare on Nightmare Street,” describing it as a mix of classic horror elements like haunted houses and eerie neighbors, written for both new and returning audiences.
After the talk, fans lined up for a signing, holding everything from brand-new releases to worn copies of older Goosebumps books. The line reflected a wide age range, showing how his stories have lasted across generations.
Other major authors, including Salman Rushdie, Erik Larson and Brad Thor, also drew large crowds, with some sessions even requiring advance tickets or fast passes due to high demand.
Even as it continues to grow, the festival keeps its focus on accessibility and community. For students and visitors alike, it offered a chance to connect with stories and the people behind them in a lively, welcoming setting.