Morris Authors Day

Next date: Saturday, April 18, 2026 | 10:30 AM to 02:30 PM

Morris County Library is proud to welcome you to Morris Authors Day 2026! This biennial event shines a spotlight on the many talented authors living in or writing about Morris County. This year, we celebrate the United States’s 250th birthday! Join us for author presentations, book signings, drop-in children’s activities, and more.

No registrations required -- just bring yourself and your enquiring mind! This event is free and open to all. Any questions, please feel free to contact us via the email address or phone number on the right.

Our speakers:

Taking Sides in Revolutionary New Jersey: Caught in the Crossfire

Dr. Maxine Lurie, Professor Emerita of History at Seton Hall University

11:00 - 12:00

Dr. Maxine Lurie, Professor Emerita of History at Seton Hall University and Chair of the New Jersey Historical Commission is an award-winning author and a leading authority on New Jersey history. She enjoys sharing her enthusiasm and interest in the small state we live in, and the complexities of the birth of the American nation. She will discuss how she came to write Caught in the Crossfire and share her insights on the difficulties faced by New Jerseyans during the war years of the American Revolution.

The Revolutionary War Mystery Series: The Turncoat's Widow, The Counterfeit Wife & The Paris Mistress

Mally Becker, Historical Fiction Author

12:15-1:15

Award-winning author Mally Becker traces the unexpected path that led her from the Morristown National Historical Park's archives to writing her three-book Revolutionary War mystery series. Through stories drawn from original letters, forgotten crimes, and divided New Jersey communities, Mally reveals a Revolution far messier -- and more human -- than history books present. Focusing on Morristown and British-occupied New York City, her talk explores espionage, survival, and the ordinary people caught between loyalties, offering fresh insight into a past that feels strikingly modern.

Colonial Taverns of New Jersey: Libations, Library & Revolution

Michael C. Gabriele, Journalist & Writer

1:30 - 2:30

During the 17th and 18th centuries, colonial taverns were a social network in New Jersey that provided a space for political activities, romance, merriment, debate, and libations. Join author, journalist, and freelance writer Michael C. Gabriele as he discusses how New Jersey's colonial taverns became the main stage for key debates, recruitment stations for colonial militias, meeting places for local committees of safety, as well as headquarters for George Washington. ..."Eat, drink, be merry and join the Revolution."