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5 Book Talks & Literary Spaces for Women in Chicago

No need to board a plane or book a retreat to experience transformational conversations rooted in women’s stories. Right here in Chicago, a rich ecosystem of book talks, author conversations, and literary gatherings is thriving.


For open-hearted women who like a good book and love an even juicier conversation, book talks in Chicago offer more than intellectual stimulation: They create spaces where stories are unapologetically shared, perspectives are expanded, and connection builds naturally. These are spaces where you’re invited to listen, reflect, and be shaped by other women’s words, because we know collective wisdom lives in storytelling.


At ALTAR, we know that our space shapes us: The environments we immerse ourselves in matter just as much as whoever is on the stage. That’s why we’ve highlighted seven book-focused talks and literary spaces across Chicago in 2026 that are especially welcoming to women seeking thoughtful dialogue, meaningful connection, and the simple joy of being in a room with like-minded readers. Consider this your invitation to gather, to listen, and become part of the story.



The List: Curated Literary Events for Women in Chicago


  1. Ladies Who Lit Community

Want to stay current on new releases, read author interviews, and join bookish events in Chicago? Ladies Who Lit, curated by Kaylen Ralph, is “an experiential book club that celebrates writing by women and reading as a lifestyle.” With a new-for-2026 weekly post on upcoming releases, her Booked & Busy roundup of literary goodies and recommendations across the entertainment sphere, and exciting events to look forward to, this is a fantastic resource for any woman looking to expand her reading scope.

 

  1. Happy Women Dinners: Living Undimmed with Cecily Mak

ALTAR Community Chicago | Thursday Jan. 22nd, 6:30pm

If you started 2026 feeling the pressure to set a harsh resolution or reinvent yourself, this is your invitation to a gentler beginning. More than your typical book talk, this is a deeply connective dinner experience where author Cecily Mak will share the heart of her latest book, Undimmed. You’ll gather around the table and discuss what it means to feel more present and alive, and how we can grasp on to that clarity moving forward.

 

  1. My Parents Are Dead, Now What? Conversation with Becky Robinson

Women & Children First | Thursday Jan. 29th, 7pm

After losing both parents, Becky Robison devoted herself to making death and post-death logistics easier on others while still retaining a sense of humor. In her book My Parents Are Dead, Now What?, she draws on her own experience and interviews with experts to hold your hand through the entire process (beginning with end-of-life discussions while you can still have them). This conversation with Becky and Erica Reid Gerdes, both certified Death Doulas, is certain to be informative and affirming in equal measure!

 

  1. Learning to Trust Yourself with Tama Kieves

ALTAR Community Chicago | Saturday Jan. 31st, 10am

For any woman struggling with self-doubt, this one-day retreat with bestselling author and coach Tama Kieves is a must-attend event! Known for her wicked sense of humor and electrifying presence, Tama will teach you how to uncover your inner clarity, revealing the innate power and wisdom you hold within. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in open-hearted community and learning!

 

  1. Romance Q&As and Book Talks

The Last Chapter Bookstore | Multiple Dates beginning Jan. 2026

With the surge in popularity of romance & fantasy—aka romantasy—it’s helpful to know there are brick and mortar spaces where you can connect with other readers and get specialized recommendations. The Last Chapter specializes in romance books specifically and hosts author talks, book release parties, and more for fans based in Chicago.  


Turning the Page…


Throughout Chicago, there are spaces and people already holding the conversations you’ve been craving. In cozy bookstores, welcoming gathering spaces, and rooms filled with curious, thoughtful women, book talks in Chicago offer more than literary discussion: Stories are being shared, and something deeper is happening alongside them. These aren’t just events to attend—they’re experiences to be shaped by and reminders that you don’t have to venture far to feel inspired, connected, and seen.


As you explore these gatherings in 2026, trust what draws you in. Follow the authors, spaces, and conversations that make you feel like you can exhale. Let yourself show up with your questions, your annotated pages, and your full presence. Consider this your ongoing invitation to take up space.

 

At ALTAR, our mission is to hold space for women to simply be—free from expectation and full of possibility. Through dynamic programs, thought-provoking conversations, and soulful creativity, we foster a community that uplifts, nurtures, and co-creates a more empowered future for all. To stay up to date on upcoming book talks and author events in our Chicago home, sign up for our email list here.


 
 
 
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