Fairytale winter market to feature book pop-up

 The Fairytale Finds Winter Market is set to bring a Disney-inspired holiday celebration to Goodyear Ballpark, and among the major attractions this year will be an expanded literary presence from independent publisher Dead Star Press.

Known for its catalog of speculative fiction, sci-fi and offbeat storytelling, Dead Star Press will operate a full pop-up bookstore throughout the two-day market. The press plans to showcase a special collection of Disney- and fairytale-themed titles, along with its broader lineup of unconventional fiction. Organizers say the pop-up aims to offer families and genre readers an alternative to mainstream holiday book selections.

The appearance also supports the publisher’s ongoing fundraising effort for its upcoming “Weirdmobile,” a bookmobile designed to bring banned, independent and unconventional literature to events across the region. Staff members say the vehicle would allow them to reach more readers without the heavy setup typically required at large markets.

Dead Star Press promotes an author-centric, nontraditional publishing model that removes requirements for query letters and agents in favor of direct submissions. Its leaders say the market provides an opportunity to introduce new readers to writers who might otherwise be overlooked.

The broader Winter Market will feature more than 200 vendors from across the United States, over 10 live Disney-inspired characters, a continuous musical performance and a Santa meet-and-greet. Organizers expanded the festival to two days after crowds overwhelmed the previous single-day event.

The market runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 29 and 30 at 1933 S. Ballpark Way. Admission is $5, and children 12 and under are admitted free. All tickets must be purchased online.