We love Books!
Books are at the heart of what we do — from running our bookstore to hosting literary gatherings and organizing the Twentynine Palms Book Festival each year.
In our bookstore, you'll find a curated mix of vintage and new titles, along with funny book-related objects and stationary. Visit us in person or shop a special selection of collectible and vintage books right here.
NEXT EVENT: Conversation & Book Signing with Cary Baker: Saturday Oct. 11 at 5PM
Join us at Desert General for a special conversation with Cary Baker, author of Down on the Corner: Adventures in Busking and Street Music (Jawbone Press), interviewed by journalist Steve Hochman.
Baker’s debut book traces the untold history of street music—from blues, folk, and doo-wop to jazz and indie rock—spanning city sidewalks, subway platforms, and parks from the 1920s to today. Featuring stories and interviews with Lucinda Williams, Billy Bragg, Violent Femmes, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Madeleine Peyroux, Old Crow Medicine Show, and more, Down on the Corner shines a light on the musicians who turned everyday spaces into unforgettable stages.
With passion and humor, Baker recounts his personal journey into the world of busking, from his Chicago roots to his decades in the music industry, now returning to his first love: writing.
About the Speakers
Cary Baker – Writer, music publicist, and lifelong champion of street music. His writing career began with a profile of Chicago blues busker Blind Arvella Gray at just 16 years old. He has directed publicity for six record labels (including Capitol and IRS) and two of his own companies, working with acclaimed artists such as R.E.M., Bonnie Raitt and more. Prior to his PR years, Baker wrote for the Chicago Reader, Creem, Trouser Press After 42 years in the music industry, Baker returns with his first book.
Steve Hochman – Music journalist with bylines in the Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Variety, and SPIN. He frequently moderates at the Grammy Museum and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Guests will be greeted by a busker.
Presented by the Twentynine Palms Book Festival and Desert General Bookstore, with the support of Visit 29 Palms.
PAST EVENT
Book Talk & Signing with Laila Lalami
Desert General is the organizer of the Twentynine Palms Book Festival
The Twentynine Palms Book Festival returns for its third edition from November 7–9, 2025, as a three-day celebration of storytelling, creativity, and the unique heritage of the Mojave Desert. With a dynamic program designed to inspire readers, authors, and industry professionals, the festival aims to expand its reach while preserving its small-town charm and authenticity.
THIS EVENT IS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VISIT 29 PALMS.
Learn more about the 2025 program.
Let us help you bring your next literary event to life in one of the most rewarding and evocative settings in California.