The New Mexico Book Association welcomes award-winning poet, memoirist, and screenwriter Jimmy Santiago Baca to its 2023 Summer Gala. Often described as both a "firebrand" and "inspirational," Baca's remarkable backstory is reflected in his work.

At the event, we will also host a performance by guitarist Nacha Mendez, who was voted Best Female Vocalist in Santa Fe in 2009 and 2010 and received a New Mexico Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.

Of particular interest to many Summer Gala attendees, the NMBA will announce the 2024 Southwest Book Design and Production Awards (SWBDA) competition winners.

The NMBA, thirty years old next year, supports the creation of quality books for readers of all ages, genders, and ethnicities through workshops, monthly Zoom networking meetings, author exposure opportunities, competitions, and awards.

The $60 ticket price includes a copy of one of Baca's books. Tickets may be purchased on NMBA's website.