Book fair goes digital during lockdown

With the Covid-19 regulations taking its toll on all large events and gatherings, community members can look forward to attending the South African Book Fair from the comfort of their own homes. The annual event, usually held at Constitution Hill, will be held virtually between 11 and 13 September.

The virtual fair is presented by the South African Book Development Council (SABDC), with the support of the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing (FP&M) Seta.

Organisers of this year’s event have ensured it has something to offer everyone. Author-led panel discussions offer a feast for the mind and soul of those interested in feminism, race and identity, crime, relationships and erotica, food and food security, travel, economics, science fiction and more. Tickets will cost R50 and will give book lovers access to the full three-day event.

Among the fair’s highlights is The Magic Tent, which hosts the children’s programme. The Magic Tent will offer a range of activities for children and teens. Young and old are encouraged to pay a visit to the tent and revel in the affirmative power of books and reading.

Book and word devotees will not want to miss the Keorapetse Kgositsile Poetry Café or the Battle of the Book Clubs Quiz. “Historic circumstances allowed us to reimagine this year’s SA Book Fair,” said Elitha van der Sandt, CEO of the South African Book Development Council (SABDC).

“We worked at curating an accessible and engaging programme that, even in these virtual times, continue to establish the unique role of books, authors and publishers in addressing the most relevant issues of the moment – in both the public and personal arenas.”

The fair opens on 11 September with the semi-finals of the Battle of the Book Clubs (6pm to 7pm). It will close with the finals of the Battle of the Book Clubs on 12 September (6pm to 7pm).

For the full programme and ticket sales, visit www.southafricanbookfair.co.za.