Jasmine Guillory's debut YA book (& birthday celebration)
October 13, 2026 6:00 pm
Jasmine Guillory at Local Economy
Oakland readers get a sweet one Tuesday, October 13, from 6 to 8 pm at Local Economy.
Jasmine Guillory, one of Oakland’s favorite best selling romance writers, is coming through with her first young adult book, It’s Only Dancing. The setup has camp, dance lessons, first freedom, and a clear nod to Dirty Dancing, which feels like a fun lane for Guillory’s warm, character focused style.
She’ll be in conversation with Maggie Tokuda Hall, another writer who knows how to reach young readers without talking down to them. Expect a relaxed book chat with two sharp authors, plus the kind of room where people actually listen, laugh, and ask good questions.
Local Economy should be a nice fit for this one. It has that Oakland neighborhood feel where a literary event can stay casual and still feel special. And since it is also Jasmine’s birthday, there will be cake, ice cream, and bubbles in the mix.
If you’ve followed Guillory’s romance novels, this is a chance to hear how she’s shifting into young adult fiction. If you’re new to her work, it is an easy way in.
Details and tickets are at Planet Zoop.
Jasmine Guillory is Oakland’s own best-selling romance novelist. Since leaving her career as a lawyer, she’s written nine novels with a memorable array of diverse characters. And now, she’s trying her hand in a new category: young adult.
It’s Only Dancing is a delightful riff on Dirty Dancing. A camp. A dance instructor. Being young and free!
For this night at Local Economy, Guillory will be in conversation with Maggie Tokuda-Hall, who also writes lauded books for kids and teens.
Aaannd we’ll also be celebrating Jasmine’s birthday with some cake and ice cream and bubbles.
Take it from Cosmopolitan magazine: “Everything Jasmine Guillory touches turns to gold.”