Book lovers, families and young readers gathered at Kingsmead College on May 23 for the annual Kingsmead Book Fair, where literature, conversation and entertainment came together across various interactive spots and panel discussions.

While a lively food court created a mouth-watering atmosphere with food trucks selling doughnuts, waffles, burgers, chips, coffee, hot chocolate and many more scrumptious food items, it attracted long queues as attendees took breaks between the thought-provoking sessions.

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Among the many different panel discussions available during the fair, one focused on the apartheid era and the lasting impact of South Africa’s past to date. Speakers reflected on how the impact of apartheid continues to affect communities today, emphasising conversations around memory, healing and social change.

Children and school learners also engaged in the day’s activities and explored the fair. While mascots moved around the venue interacting with guests, both children and adults stopped to take pictures with the characters.

A lively storytelling session for children had them laughing and screaming with excitement, entertained by the storyteller’s dramatic and animated expressions.

Another interesting sight was the Neuroverse Galactica Exhibition, a sensory experience designed around children with neurodiversity and how they see the world.

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According to exhibition representative and artist Jet Mathe, the project was founded by Dr Dee Blackie as part of a sensory space initiative informed by anthropological research into neurodiversity and children’s imaginative inner worlds.

The exhibition had different themed planets representing emotional and sensory experiences, including spaces focused on isolation, virtual interaction, dissociation, emotional overload and shutdown.

Mathe explained that many children often find comfort in imaginary worlds and digital environments, where they may feel safer and willing to engage than in everyday life.
Throughout the day, the fair provided panel discussions, social interactions with entertainment, creating an environment that welcomed readers of all ages.

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