Hamline MFAC Winter Alumni Weekend
Join the Hamline MFAC Writing Program for an inspiring conversation with Keenan Jones, educator and debut children’s author of Saturday Morning at the Shop (Simon & Schuster). Keenan will share his unexpected journey from basketball standout to published writer, tracing how a career-altering injury and a creative writing class set him on the path to children’s publishing. In this candid talk, he’ll discuss navigating traditional publishing as a debut author, staying motivated through challenges, and drawing on personal experience to craft meaningful stories for young readers.

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We’re excited to welcome Keenan Jones to Griot Arts in Rochester, MN.
Keenan is a writer, educator, and literacy advocate whose debut picture book “Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop'” (Beach Lane Book/Simon & Schuster, 2025) follows a young boy who discovers the vital role a neighborhood barbershop plays in community and culture.
Mark your calendar and come through with kids and family for a special afternoon reading and activity with the author.
Event time is 2-3 PM.
Rain Taxi’s Twin Cities Book Festival is the annual Minnesota gathering for readers, writers, publishers, and purveyors of all things literary. The TCBF features dozens of presenting authors, special children’s programs, and a wide variety of exhibitors featuring new and rare books, quirky literary curiosities, and more.
Join us for a story time featuring author Keenan Jones and get a free signed copy of his book! This book will be on display as a story stroll from 9-noon.
Hear author and keynote speaker Keenan Jones deliver an inspiring talk celebrating Black culture, community, and empowerment. A meet-and-greet and signing of “Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop” follows.