One Book, One San Diego is back in its 20th year! Our region’s annual community reading program has been encouraging San Diegans and our neighbors in Northern Baja to read and discuss the same book since 2007.

The goal is to bring “our community closer together through the shared experience of reading.”

Presented by KPBS in partnership with over 80 public libraries, service organizations, and educational institutions, join us as we read and explore this year’s exciting selections.

For the first time, the 2026 adult selection is a historic horror novel:

The Buffalo Hunter Hunter— Stephen Graham Jones.

This award-winning tale shares the story of Etsy Beaucarne as she transcribes her ancestor’s 100-year-old diary entries, detailing the tragic massacre of 217 Blackfeet in Montana. Etsy is quickly drawn into a fantastic story of violence, vampirism, and vengeance, playing out over the last century between her family and the Native Americans murdered at the Marias Massacre.

Author Stephen Graham Jones is a master of the macabre, bringing historical wrongs to light, illustrating the pain of generational trauma, and sharing the myths and legends of Indigenous Americans.

  • Join us at the La Mesa Library on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 1 p.m. to discuss The Buffalo Hunter Hunter.

The Cartoonists Club — Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud

The incredible and beloved Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud bring us this year’s teen title, The Cartoonists Club. Four kids come together to form The Cartoonists Club, where each can use their talents and passion to create incredible comics.

Makayla isn’t sure how to turn her ideas into a story; Howard and Lynda love to draw but aren’t confident in their skills; and Art just wants to share his creativity. Together, they learn how to craft a comic, and readers can do the same. Featuring a great story, practical how-to advice, and all the excitement of storytelling, this is the perfect guide to inspire future comic book writers!

  • Teens can discuss The Cartoonist Club on Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2:30 p.m. at the La Mesa Library.

Books on Bikes by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell

Books on Bikes by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell is the beautiful 2026 picture book selection for kids and families. Available in both English and Spanish, this true-to-life story demonstrates how bikes, laden with books, can bring stories to everyone. The gorgeous illustrations by Brizida Magro show the intrepid Lía, who loves to read and is excited to share her books, pedaling her trusty bike through the neighborhood.

  • Books on Bikes is the perfect tribute to book-loving kids and the people who read to them!

Visit www.sdcl.org/OneBook to find this year’s titles at your local branch, download a free digital copy, and find more upcoming One Book, One San Diego activities.

Check out our other fun programs at the La Mesa Library! Visit a galaxy far, far away with us on Saturday, Oct. 17, starting at 11 a.m. for Star Wars Reads Day. Meet the 501st Legion, make your own lightsabers, and join the rebel cause!

Costumes are welcome! Visit www.sdcl.org/LaMesa for more information and events.