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The inaugural MN STEM Book Festival took place on October 12, 2025, at The Bakken Museum as part of the museum’s 50th anniversary celebration. Presented in collaboration with The Thinking Spot, The Bakken Museum, and Minnesota Tech Network, the festival brought together STEM authors, young readers, families, and curious minds for a full day of books, conversations, hands-on activities, and discovery.

The event featured author panel discussions, author meet-and-greets, a kids’ author table, a vendor marketplace, hands-on science and math activities, and full access to The Bakken Museum. Admission was free, helping make STEM books and ideas accessible to everyone.

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Featured Author Panels

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Between Algorithms and People: Demystifying AI — Panelists David Espindola, Ben Orlin, Lori Ryan, and Arun Batchu explored how to make artificial intelligence more understandable and relevant in everyday life. The conversation focused on the promises and pitfalls of AI, practical examples of how it shows up in daily life, and the importance of clear storytelling in making complex technology accessible.

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Nature, Climate Change & Sustainability — Jonathan C. Slaght, Heather Holm, and Ashley Shelby discussed ecology, resilience, and sustainability at the intersection of science and storytelling. Moderated by Hannah Barisonzi, the panel highlighted how narrative and research can deepen public understanding of the natural world and the challenges of climate change.

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Health Sciences: Preparing for the Next Pandemic — Dr. Michael Osterholm, Katie Schaefer, and Christine Kletti shared perspectives on public health, medical response, and pandemic preparedness. Moderated by Chris Dall, the discussion examined lessons learned from past pandemics and the role of science, policy, and clinical practice in protecting communities.

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Women Shaping Science: Journeys, Barriers, and Breakthroughs — Jessica Nordell, Kim Todd, and Anna Farro, moderated by Liz Heinecke, reflected on the experiences of women in STEM, including mentorship, barriers, breakthrough moments, and the evolving landscape for future generations of scientists and science communicators.

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The Science of Stories: How Pop Culture Shapes What We Believe — Kelly Florence, Meg Hafdahl, and Jim Kakalios, moderated by David Montgomery, examined the ways comic books, horror, film, and television influence how people think about science. The panel looked at what pop culture gets right, what it distorts, and how entertainment can spark curiosity about STEM.

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Kids’ Authors

The Kids’ Author Table featured two authors each hour for quick chats, doodles, and book signings, giving young readers a chance to meet inspiring storytellers throughout the day. Participating children’s authors included Joyce Sidman, Liz Heinecke, Karen Latchana Kenney, C.M. Surrisi, Molly Beth Griffin, Pete Hautman, Phyllis Root, Abby Cooper, Aimee Bissonette, Cristina Oxtra, Mélina Mangal, and Trisha Speed Shaskan.

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Museum Experience

Set inside the beautiful and distinctive Bakken Museum, the festival gave attendees a chance to explore one of Minnesota’s most unique spaces while discovering new books and ideas. More than 600 attendees filled the museum with energy and curiosity, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day. Visitors enjoyed the museum exhibits, the rare book display, and the open maker space, all of which added to the sense of wonder and hands-on discovery.

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Activities and Discovery

In addition to the main stage programming, the festival offered a variety of interactive experiences for all ages. The Bakken hosted hands-on science, nature, and math activities, while additional activity tables invited guests to explore experiments, pollinators, and playful learning through Math on a Stick, Heather Holm of Bees Native Plants, and Liz Heinecke. These activity stations helped make the festival especially engaging for families and young learners.

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Vendor Marketplace

The vendor marketplace featured a wide selection of science nonfiction and fiction books for all ages, along with STEM toys and other discovery-based items. It was a favorite stop for visitors looking to browse, shop, and find new favorites to take home. The marketplace extended the festival experience beyond the panels and activities, giving attendees a chance to connect with books and hands-on learning in a new way.

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The first MN STEM Book Festival was a joyful celebration of books, science, and community in the beautiful and inspiring setting of The Bakken Museum. More than 600 attendees discovered both the museum and new books, while the building stayed buzzing with conversation, hands-on exploration, and curiosity around every corner. From the exhibits and rare book display to the maker space, activity tables, and vendor marketplace, the day offered something for every age and interest — a lively reminder of how powerful it can be when storytelling, science, and discovery come together.

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