U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson headlines the Martha’s Vineyard Black Book Festival, which returns on August 9 for its second year on the Island.

Justice Jackson will discuss her memoir Lovely One, which was published in 2024. In the book, she recounts her family’s history with segregation and her appointment to the Supreme Court.

The event was founded by Traci Wilkes Smith and takes place at the Island Inn in Oak Bluffs.

“I’m really excited about this upcoming year,” Ms. Smith said. “We’re looking forward to having an opportunity for Black authors and storytellers to come together and share their work, connect with readers.”

This year, the festival centers around three themes: wisdom, inspiration and perseverance. Ms. Smith said that the themes were chosen because they are core to the spirit of Black communities.

More than 20 authors will be attending the event, which will include “fireside chats” with the authors and panel discussions, ranging from Inspiring Journeys, to Wisdom and Perseverance, to Trauma and Healing, to name a few.

“We are really looking to honor and amplify these stories that are deeply rooted with insight and the spirit within Black communities,” she said.

In addition to founding the book festival, Ms. Smith is a senior vice president at a sports and media talent representation agency. She was introduced to the Vineyard by her husband, whose family has had a home in Oak Bluffs for four generations.

Ms. Smith said she started the festival in order to create a stronger community for Black writers.

“They get energized and they’re inspired by one another,” she said. “Finding connection and meaningful conversations are very important to me.”

The Martha’s Vineyard Black Book Festival takes place August 9 at the Island Inn. Tickets and more information are available at mvbbf.com.