A Mississippi literary road trip gives an intimate look into the lives of some of the nation's most famous writers, rare resources at state universities, beautiful libraries, and delightful bookstores.

Here's a recommended loop that covers almost 10 hours of drive time, so plan at least a long weekend or more to do the whole thing. You'll see the trip begins and ends with two different destinations in one town—that's intentional to ensure you properly stock up on souvenirs. You can access the Google Maps directions here.

1. Rowan Oak, Oxford

Begin your adventure at Rowan Oak, the historic home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. Built in 1848, the home became Faulkner's haven from 1930 until his death in 1962. Here, he composed works including "Absalom, Absalom!," "As I Lay Dying," "Light in August," and "A Fable," the latter for which Faulkner scribbled the outline on the walls of the home's study. In 1954, the book earned him the first of two Pulitzer Prizes. (The second was awarded posthumously for his last novel, "The Reivers.")

The University of Mississippi owns and maintains the property today, so you may stroll the grounds from dawn to dusk for free. For a $5 cash-only fee, you can go inside to explore the beautifully preserved rooms, which contain many original furnishings, family photographs, and memorabilia documenting Faulkner's life and legacy.

Kids age 12 and younger plus any faculty, staff, and students of Ole Miss can visit free of charge.

2. Violet Valley Bookstore, Water Valley

Violet Valley Bookstore opened in 2017 and just two years later, took the 12th spot on Oprah Magazine's list of the nation's top 20 independent bookstores. Known for its LGBTQ-friendly environment and diverse inventory, the shop stocks new and used books across genres, plus a selection of locally made jewelry and art.

The shop curates a staff-picks shelf and frequently hosts author readings and other special events. As you plan your timing, note that the bookstore is only open Thursday and Friday from noon to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

3. William Alexander Percy Memorial Library, Greenville

At just over 27,000 residents, the small city of Greenville, Mississippi, proclaims the title of having "more published writers per capita” than any other town in the nation.

Some of its most noted authors, either born or raised here, include native Shelby Foote, historian, novelist, and narrator/writer of PBS’s "Civil War" series; novelists Walker Percy, Ellen Douglas, Beverly Lowry, and Bern Keating; and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and PBS commentator Hodding Carter III.

And yet another, poet and biographer William Alexander Percy, is the namesake for the town's library, where you will find Greenville Writer's Exhibit that honors all of these greats and many more.

4. Jackson

The state's capital city holds a bounty for book lovers, which is one reason we recommend we make it a place for an overnight stay. Not only does Jackson have so much to see and do, but it is about midway through your drive time for this literary road trip through Mississippi.

Must-visit destinations include the Eudora Welty House & Garden, the former home of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Tour the historic house museum and grounds to see original furnishings, photographs, and gardens.

Another literary gem in Jackson is Lemuria Books, an independent bookstore specializing in Southern literature, including first editions and signed copies. Other worthy stops include the Mississippi Library Commission and the start of the Mississippi Writers Trail, which consists of markers statewide.

It's also worth noting Jackson is the site of the hugely popular annual Mississippi Book Festival, and you'll have to time your trip in September to catch it.

5. Starkville

Fans of author John Grisham will love visiting Starkville, specifically the John Grisham Room at Mississippi State University Library, where they can see a nicely curated collection of his works and related memorabilia. While Grisham was born in Arkansas, he was 4 years old when he and his family moved to Southaven, Mississippi, where he grew up.

He later made both state universities proud, having earned his undergraduate degree in Starkville and then his juris doctor at the University of Mississippi.

Another must-visit in Starkville is Book Mart & Café downtown, a long-loved independent bookstore that has served the university and community at large since 1971.

6. Tennessee Williams Home and Welcome Center, Columbus

Just 25 miles east of Starkville, you can visit the birthplace of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Thomas Lanier "Tennessee" Williams—just the exterior at this writing, as the museum has been closed for several months for a restoration project.

Call before you go to see if tours have reopened, as the last word we have is that it may happen in November. This National Literary Landmark is located in the heart of Columbus’ downtown historic district and has long served as the town's official welcome center.

7. Square Books, Oxford

We recommend closing your literary loop back in Oxford at Square Books, an independent bookstore that has been a staple for book lovers since 1979. The business covers four stores and over 10,000 feet on the city's charming square.

Check the calendar of events before you go; more than likely, you can catch one of its 150-plus author events. Regardless, this is a fine place to seek titles you've added to your list on this Mississippi literary road trip.

Have you visited any of these special spots in the Magnolia State? We'd love to hear about your experiences. If you're taking our tips and setting out on this adventure soon, check out our ultimate road trip packing list so you have everything you need to be safe and comfortable on your journey.