Books on the Ground

Books on the Ground is a Houston-based, cowgirl-glam book festival where stories, sisterhood, and Southern vibes collide. Curated by SistersNStoryland (SNS), BOTG brings readers, authors, and bookish creatives together for a Texas-sized weekend of books, experiences, and community.

Set in Houston, Texas, BOTG 2.0 (November 6–7, 2026) is more than “just a signing” it’s a full literary experience. Readers can meet their favorite and new-to-them authors, discover fresh voices in urban fiction, romance, and beyond, and enjoy curated events like:

  • Boot Scootin’ Boogie Book Ball – a dressed-up dinner and keynote experience with line dancing and big “bookish prom” energy.

  • Mixology Masterclass – cocktails and mocktails inspired by your favorite characters and tropes.

  • Workshops & Experiences – body butter and custom scent sessions, stitch & sip, calligraphy and more.

  • SNS Sanctuary Lounge – a cozy space to rest, recharge, eat, and connect with other readers.

  • Bookish Yoga & Chill Moments – because soft life and self-care are part of the story too.

At its heart, BOTG is for the Black and Brown book lovers, mood readers, and romance addicts who want more than a quick autograph. It’s for the women who build friendships in comment sections, buddy reads, and book clubs—and want to finally hug those people in real life.

BOTG stands on three pillars:

  • Stories – Centering authors and books across genres, with a special love for urban, indie, and romance voices.

  • Sisterhood – Creating a safe, joyful space where women feel seen, celebrated, and welcomed exactly as they are.

  • Experience – Thoughtful details, themed events, and immersive moments that make the weekend feel unforgettable.

Come for the books. Stay for the vibes, the line dances, the late-night laughs, and the community that lingers long after the last page.

This is Books on the Ground.

BOOKS ON THE GROUND FEATURED AUTHORS

  • NICOLE JACKSON

  • JAHQUEL J

  • CION LEE

  • CONNIE EASTON

  • DIAMOND JOHNSON

  • LISA AUSTIN

  • KELLZ KIMBERLY

  • THERESA REESE

  • MISS CANDICE

  • JATORIA C

  • NATAVIA

  • EVELYN LATRICE

  • REESE LAFLARE

  • AJ DAVIDSON

  • CHARAE LEWIS

  • T’LYN

  • KUTURA B

  • K.NICOLE

  • elle Kayson

  • MONICA WALTERS

  • S.YVONNE

  • MESHA MESH

  • CHARITY SHANE

  • TREASURE MALIAN

  • PORSCHAE JADE

  • BONNIE BLANCO

  • TYANNA

  • MYA

  • ERIKA B

  • KAMI

  • K.POWELL

BOTG 2025

Meet the team Behind BOTG

Nicole Jones

Communications & Author Relations Director

Nicole is the voice of SNS/BOTG. She oversees communications, public relations, and author relations, serving as the main point of contact for featured authors and key partners. She helps shape messaging, handles updates and information flow, and makes sure authors feel informed, supported, and celebrated throughout the BOTG journey.

Ann Montanez

Operations & Logistics Director

Ann is the backbone of SNS/BOTG’s behind-the-scenes operations. She manages logistics, budgeting, timelines, and vendor coordination, ensuring everything runs smoothly before, during, and after the festival. From floor plans and room layouts to inventory and day-of flow, Ann keeps the moving pieces organized so attendees and authors can simply enjoy the experience.

Ashley Johnson

Founder & Festival Director

Ashley is the visionary behind Books on the Ground and the founder of SistersNStoryland (SNS). She oversees the entire festival experience from concept to executioncurating the theme, lineup, programming, and overall vibe of the weekend. Ashley leads big-picture planning, partnerships, and creative direction, making sure BOTG always feels intentional, welcoming, and unforgettable.