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KidLit Pizzazz Festival
December 7, 2025 @ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
KidLit Pizzazz Festival at Sidekick Coffee & Books
A Free Family Celebration of Children’s & Young Adult Literature
Sunday, December 7 • 2–5 PM
Author Meet & Greet: 2:30–4:30 PM
Location: 1310 ½ Melrose Ave, Iowa City
Admission: Free
Join Us for the 3rd Annual KidLit Pizzazz Festival!
Sidekick Coffee & Books is excited to welcome families, readers, and book lovers of all ages to our third annual KidLit Pizzazz Festival—a festive afternoon devoted to children’s, middle grade, and young adult literature.
This free community event brings together a wonderful group of authors and illustrators—many from right here in Iowa—who create the stories that inspire, delight, and empower young readers. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, discover new books, and pick up meaningful gifts.
Meet the Authors & Illustrators
We’re honored to host this year’s talented lineup:
Elizabeth Bedia
Jennifer Black Reinhardt
Jacqueline Briggs Martin
Jill Esbaum
Claudia McGehee
Raquel McKay
Norene Paulson
Reka Rajan
Linda Skeers
L.T. Thompson
Chat with creators, learn about their work, and get your books signed and personalized during our Author Meet & Greet from 2:30–4:30 PM.
Festival Highlights
📚 Author Meet & Greet + Book Signings
Discover your next favorite story and get it signed on the spot.
🎁 Gift Wrap Station
Complimentary wrapping for in-store purchases—perfect for holiday gifting.
🍹 Festive Themed Drinks
Seasonal beverages for kids and grown-ups available all afternoon.
🎨 Craft Station
A fun, hands-on creative activity for young artists.
🐾 Special Appearance by Dog Man
Snap a photo with everyone’s favorite canine superhero!
