The 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024) concluded on Sunday after receiving 1.82 million visitors from over 200 countries.
SIBF 2024 was held from November 6 to 17 under the theme ‘It Starts with a Book’, the event hosted over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors from 112 countries, maintaining its position as the world’s top book fair in publishing rights transactions for the fourth consecutive year, registering 3,000 meetings in 48 hours.
Visitor profile
UAE, India, Syria, Egypt, and Jordan are among the nationalities that visited the book fair.
Regarding age groups, visitors between 35 and 44 constituted the most significant segment at 32.18%, followed by those aged 25 to 34 at 31.67% and young adults aged 18 to 24 at 13.7%.
Men accounted for 53.66% of the book fair’s visitors, while women represented 46.36%. Additionally, the exhibition welcomed 135,000 students from various schools nationwide.
The Book Signing Corner saw over 1,000 authors unveil their latest works.
His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, underscored the emirate’s cultural commitment by allocating Dh 4.5 million to enrich public and governmental libraries. This investment enabled the acquisition of new Arabic and international titles, reinforcing libraries’ role as essential knowledge hubs.
Source: SIBF
‘Cultural ecosystem’
Reflecting on the 43rd edition, Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), said:
“The exceptional milestones achieved during SIBF 2024 mark a significant addition to Sharjah’s cultural journey. Welcoming 1.82 million visitors and hosting over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors from across the globe has elevated the event from a book fair to a dynamic and thriving book community. It is now a fully-fledged cultural ecosystem, bringing together creators, readers, and all key stakeholders in the literary and publishing sectors.”
In response to a question from our news portal, Al Ameri said that they are trying to reach out to the European communities living here and are also trying to create multilingualism. He stressed that the interest from Europeans is also growing every year, and the selection of the invited guests is also made to include writers and poets of interest to Europeans and Americans.
Publishers from Ukraine, Serbia and Austria, Hungary’s neighbours, and a Slovenian chef were also present, so CEE was represented, and Daily News Hungary and Helló Magyar represented the Hungarian press.
Milestones crossed
The fair spotlighted Algerian author Ahlam Mosteghanemi as the Cultural Personality of the Year for her contributions to Arabic literature. It also celebrated the completion of the Historical Corpus of the Arabic Language, a 127-volume achievement that preserves centuries of linguistic heritage, produced through collaboration with Arabic language academies.
Morocco took centre stage as the Guest of Honour, offering a showcase of its literary and cultural heritage. Its pavilion featured over 4,000 titles, rare artefacts, and sessions led by Moroccan intellectuals, adding depth to the cross-cultural dialogues hosted throughout the fair.
Leading figures
This year’s programme featured a diverse lineup of global icons from literature, arts, and sports, including Egyptian composer Omar Khairat, football legend Mohamed Salah, and actor Ahmed Ezz. Visitors engaged in discussions with celebrated figures such as poet Hisham El Gakh, author Stephen Bartlett, and actor Hamza Ali Abbasi.
Alexander den Heijer, Dutch speaker, trainer and writer, gave a very inspiring presentation to the audience. He said that his life coaching advice came from the heart and he tried to capture the essence in his two books. At the end of the talk on meditation and values-based living, he said, in response to a question from our news site, that meditation is good to do anywhere, but nature is the place to do it, so he also goes on retreats when he wants to do some serious meditation. He added that nature can be a desert or a forest, it doesn’t matter, the point is to meditate.
Global football sensation Mohamed Salah captivated audiences at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024) with an inspiring revelation: the secret behind his extraordinary success lies in books. “Ninety percent of my success is rooted in what I’ve learned from books. Reading has helped me become a better version of myself,” Salah shared, underscoring the profound impact of reading on his personal and professional journey.
The Role of Books in Shaping a Champion
Renowned for his speed, precision, and relentless determination on the football field, Salah opened up about how reading has played a crucial role in his development. “I started reading extensively after I left Chelsea,” he explained. “Books made me question how people achieve success and what it truly takes to reach greatness.” Salah encouraged attendees to adopt a culture of learning and self-discovery, stressing the importance of gaining diverse perspectives.
A fan of psychology books, Salah credited them with helping him better navigate relationships and life’s challenges. “They’ve given me tools to manage emotions, understand people, and tackle the ups and downs of life,” he noted.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Stardom
Salah’s journey began in his native Egypt, where he trained at Al Mokawloon Al Arab SC before embarking on a stellar European career. After stints at Basel, Chelsea, Fiorentina, and Roma, Salah joined Liverpool FC in 2017, solidifying his place as one of football’s greats.
During his talk, Salah gave fans a glimpse into his disciplined daily routine. “For the past decade, I’ve trained twice a day, even on holidays. I constantly push myself to improve,” he said, inspiring the audience with his dedication and work ethic.
Reading: A Family Tradition
Beyond football, Salah spoke about how reading has enriched his family life.
“My wife and I ensure our two daughters grow up with a love for books,” he revealed.
Their family library features a mix of Arabic and English titles, with a particular focus on psychology. Despite his busy schedule, Salah prioritizes reading in his personal life: “I always carry a book in my bag and make time to read before bed.”
He also shared an exciting future plan:
“I’m considering writing a biography to inspire younger generations who dream of taking a similar path to mine.”
A Legacy of Learning and Growth
With a glittering career that includes Premier League and UEFA Champions League titles, Golden Boots, and the Puskás Award, Salah’s accomplishments speak to his immense talent and perseverance. Yet, his success is equally rooted in his unwavering commitment to personal growth and self-improvement.
Through his inspiring session at SIBF, Salah reminded the audience of the transformative power of reading and the limitless potential that comes with a commitment to learning. His story stands as a testament to how books can shape not only great athletes but also well-rounded individuals.
Steven Bartlett, the incredibly successful young entrepreneur and host of ‘The Diary of a CEO’ podcast, was one of the featured speakers at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2024.
Steven Bartlett: Failure as a stepping stone to success
On Saturday, 16 November 2024, the penultimate day of the International Book Fair, held from 6 to 17 November, Bartlett shared insights from his entrepreneurial journey. Botswana-born and raised in humble circumstances, he stressed the critical role of failure in achieving success, framing it as a necessary part of growth.
Bartlett urged the audience not to fear failure but to view it as a source of valuable lessons, both personally and professionally.
Reflecting on his humble beginnings, Bartlett recounted starting his first business at the age of 14. Growing up in financially challenging circumstances motivated him to create something enduring. He shared how resilience and determination enabled him to overcome adversity, though he acknowledged that ego can complicate decision-making. “Ego is necessary and very useful, but it can also be a severe obstacle to progress,” he observed.
Bartlett’s engaging storytelling—often humorous but deeply insightful—captivated the audience of the Sharjah International Book Fair. His honest and relatable narratives shed light on the challenges and joys of his entrepreneurial path.
“When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work, and I’m happy,”
Bartlett told the audience, highlighting the importance of passion in sustaining creativity and momentum as an entrepreneur and content creator.
A focus on lifestyle and family
Bartlett also delved into his personal journey of prioritising health and wellness. He revealed that a few years ago, he made significant changes to his lifestyle, paying closer attention to his diet, sleep, and overall health. For example, he avoids scheduling commitments before 11 a.m. to ensure he performs optimally after a restful start to the day.
Steven Bartlett at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2024. United Arab Emirates. Photo credit: Dialy News Hungary
Addressing personal challenges, Bartlett spoke candidly about his struggles with relationships. He admitted to being a “disaster” in dating, attributing his difficulties to growing up without a healthy model of family life. However,
Bartlett shared that through self-improvement, he now feels ready for a serious relationship and expressed his desire to have children in the future.
This vulnerability struck a chord with the audience, adding a deeply personal and relatable dimension to his presentation.
The Diary of a CEO
Professionally, Bartlett discussed the evolution of his podcast, The Diary of a CEO, now in its fourth year. He described the early struggles, including difficulties in attracting high-profile guests and building an audience. Despite these challenges, he persevered, and after three years, the podcast gained significant traction.
From a team of just three people at the start, the podcast now employs 17. Bartlett shared how he initially had to serve as his own guest but now enjoys featuring prominent figures, which he finds immensely rewarding.
Steven Bartlett also reflected on decision-making and opportunities, drawing on his extensive experience as an entrepreneur. He noted how deceptively simple it can seem to start—or choose not to start—something, highlighting that the true consequences of such decisions often become clear only in hindsight.
“It’s the small decisions that shape our lives, even if we don’t realise it at the time,”
he explained, encouraging the audience to embrace uncertainty and take calculated risks. His insights served as a reminder of the importance of intentionality and adaptability in both personal and professional pursuits.
With his sincerity, wit, and passion, Steven Bartlett inspired and motivated the audience throughout his session. His responses to audience questions demonstrated his commitment to encouraging others on their journeys, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
A statue honouring Alisher Navoi, one of the most significant figures in Uzbek literature and culture, has been erected in Hungary. The statue, sculpted in bronze by Györgyi Lantos, was unveiled in a ceremony attended by several dignitaries.
Péter Sztáray, Minister of State for Security Policy, Avazkhan Tadjikhanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aybek Shakhavdinov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Hungary, and Sándor Lezsák, Vice President of the Hungarian Parliament and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the People’s College Foundation, unveiled the statue on Saturday at the Hungarikum Liget in Lakitelek.
Following the unveiling of the statute honouring Alisher Navoi, host Sándor Lezsák remarked that the Hungarikum Liget (formerly known as Lakitelek Folk High School) has completed the Christian Pantheon in front of the St Stephen’s Chapel, which commemorates martyrs and heroes of faith, including the martyred high priests of the 20th century. In front of Kölcsey House, the National Pantheon pays tribute to those who have greatly contributed to the development of Hungarikum Island. The Pantheon of Hun-Turkic-related peoples has now been enriched by the addition of a statue of Alisher Navoi, the Uzbek polymath, poet, historian, scientist, and founder of Uzbek literature.
Alisher Navoi, icon of Uzbek literature, honored with statue unveiling in Hungary. Photo: Embassy of Uzbekistan in Hungary
Cultural significance and Uzbek-Hungarian relations
Sándor Lezsák also highlighted the establishment of the Central Asian Department at János Neumann University, under the direction of Dávid Kara Somfai and Ernő Keskeny. One of its aims will be to foster links with other universities around the world and to promote the culture and economy of related Turkic nations, which, according to him, are “a nobler currency than the euro or dollar,” BAON reported.
Péter Sztáray, State Secretary for Security Policy, emphasised the success of Hungary’s “Eastern Opening” policy, which has resulted in increased trade, meetings, and visits between Hungary and the Turkic states. He noted that in the case of Uzbekistan, the Hungarian government’s Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme allows 170 Uzbek students to pursue higher education in Hungary each year.
The legacy of Alisher Navoi and Uzbekistan’s initiatives
Avazkhan Tadjikhanov, First Deputy Minister of Culture and head of the Uzbek delegation, described Alisher Navoi as a great poet, thinker, and statesman, whose invaluable creative and scientific legacy holds a special place not only in Uzbek literature but also in world literature. He stressed that
the recent initiatives led by Uzbekistan’s President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aim to deepen the study of Navoi’s rich creative heritage and promote his timeless works both in Uzbekistan and abroad.
The Deputy Minister also mentioned the establishment of an international public foundation named after Alisher Navoi, which aims to translate Navoi’s works into foreign languages and publish high-quality scholarly editions. Additionally, an award named after Navoi is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Turkic world in the fields of science, culture, and the arts. This prestigious prize, according to Tadjikhanov, helps to strengthen Turkic unity.
Read also: Budapest landmark illuminated in Uzbekistan flag colors for Independence Day – VIDEO
Alisher Navoi, icon of Uzbek literature, honored with statue unveiling in Hungary. Photo: Embassy of Uzbekistan in Hungary
Alisher Navoi, icon of Uzbek literature, honored with statue unveiling in Hungary. Photo: Embassy of Uzbekistan in Hungary
Alisher Navoi, icon of Uzbek literature, honored with statue unveiling in Hungary. Photo: Embassy of Uzbekistan in Hungary
He also noted that statues of Alisher Navoi can now be found in cities such as Tokyo, Shanghai, Washington, Moscow, Minsk, Astana, Baku, Dushanbe, Osh, and Ashgabat. He expressed pride that Lakitelek has joined this list, viewing it as a symbol of the growing friendship between Uzbekistan and Hungary.
Aybek Shakhavdinov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Hungary, expressed gratitude to Hungary for the opportunity to erect the statue and acknowledged the strengthening of Uzbek-Hungarian relations, to which the Embassy in Budapest strives to contribute.
The ceremony was further enhanced by performances from Uzbek guest artists, ethnographer and folk music researcher Gergely Agócs, and the Dudorások Citerazenekar. Following the statue’s inauguration, the exhibition *Street View Along the Silk Road – Photographs of Sándor Ujvári from Uzbekistan* was opened.
Read also: Uzbekistan celebrates National Day with a gala reception in Budapest – details, photos
Óbuda University partner in a science park in Uzbekistan
In related news, Hungary’s Óbuda University has played a key role in the establishment of a science park in Uzbekistan, as László Bódis, Deputy State Secretary at the Culture and Innovation Ministry, announced on Monday.
The Uzbek government recently inaugurated the Inno-TechnoPark in Jizzakh, and Bódis confirmed that Óbuda University would participate in joint projects at the park, focusing on healthcare technology, material sciences, ICT, and digital technologies.
More news about Uzbekistan:
The state and civil society in New Uzbekistan are consolidating efforts to combat corruption, details HERE
The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has unveiled the dates for the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024), scheduled to run from November 6 – 17 under the theme ‘It Starts with a Book’. The highly-anticipated event will gather a diverse assembly of local, Arab, and international publishers alongside distinguished authors, intellectuals, and creatives from various disciplines, who will deliberate critical literary, cultural, and intellectual topics, sharing their expertise and insights with a global audience.
This year’s fair will pay tribute to the Kingdom of Morocco as the Guest of Honour, celebrating its vibrant cultural heritage through a specially curated programme. The agenda will include workshops, book signings, and artistic performances that connect audiences with Moroccan literature and creativity. Attendees can also look forward to roaming shows that showcase the rich cultural diversity of Morocco alongside cultural forums designed for insightful discussions and the exchange of knowledge.
It Starts with a Book
The theme, ‘It Starts with a Book,’ embodies Sharjah’s unwavering belief in the pivotal role of reading and knowledge as the cornerstones of societal progress. It underscores that every learning journey begins with a book as a gateway to boundless knowledge. It asserts that books are essential tools for shaping the future, extending an open invitation to engage in the 43rd edition and embracing reading as a fundamental, lifelong pursuit.
SIBF’s legacy and impact
Reflecting on the upcoming 43rd edition of the fair, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, said:
“In an increasingly interconnected world, the role of books in bridging cultures and fostering understanding is more vital than ever. SIBF stands as a testament to this mission, uniting thousands of writers, intellectuals, and artists from around the globe in Sharjah. It serves as a powerful reminder that the foundations of every great civilisation are laid with books, and the values that shape nations are deeply rooted in literature.”
She added, “Over the past four decades, SIBF has emerged as a significant force in the global knowledge and creative industries. Our emphasis extends beyond the sheer number of participating publishers and creatives to the profound impact of their collective presence, resulting in far-reaching effects and influencing both local and global economies. We encourage all participants in this year’s fair, and those in the future, to harness this platform to build partnerships, explore collaborative opportunities, and engage with the knowledge institutions at the fair.”
A platform for knowledge-based societies
For his part, HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said,
“This international cultural event exemplifies Sharjah and the UAE’s unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and underscoring the pivotal role of books in disseminating it. Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the fair has evolved into more than just a space for readers and visitors. It has become a comprehensive platform for a knowledge-based society—bringing together readers, authors, translators, and illustrators to explore the latest trends in the sector and exchange innovative ideas. This aligns perfectly with SBA’s mission to showcase the richness of Emirati culture under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi.”
Honouring Morocco’s literary and cultural legacy
The celebration of Morocco as the Guest of Honour at the 43rd SIBF offers a unique opportunity to spotlight the country’s rich cultural heritage and its contributions to the Arab and global cultural landscapes. The Moroccan programme will feature publications and historical documents reflecting its cultural legacy’s depth. Prominent Moroccan figures in the literary and intellectual spheres will lead panel discussions to foster cultural and knowledge exchange. Additionally, artistic and musical performances will illuminate Morocco’s diverse cultural expressions.
A book on the more than 100-year history of the Hungarian scout movement was presented with the participation of its writers at the Hungarian embassy in Washington, DC, on Friday local time.
Over four decades preceding the 1989-90 regime change in Hungary, the movement was only allowed to exist in the Hungarian diasporas abroad, and it has remained important for preserving the Hungarian community identity there ever since, the writers said.
An important element of the scouting activity in diasporas is that the Hungarian language is used for all activities, Imre Lendvai-Lintner, president of The Hungarian Scout Association in Exteris, said.
Co-writer of the book Levente Székely, who heads the youth research institute at Mathias Corvinus Collegium, said that the 110-year-old Hungarian scout movement currently has some 14,000 members in Hungary and there are an additional 8,000 members beyond the borders, in the diasporas.
Szabolcs Takács, the Hungarian ambassador in Washington, DC, said that a recent camp of the Hungarian Scout Association in Exteris held in New York State attracted some 850 participants from all corners of the world.
This year’s Book Week festival will present 170 exhibitors at 150 stands in Budapest’s central Vörösmarty and Vigadó Squares and on the nearby Danube embankment between June 13 and 16, the organisers said on Wednesday.
9th Budapest Book Week
The event organised for the 95th time will also feature over a thousand book signing occasions and roundtable discussions, book reviews, concerts and lectures, they said.
Publishers will release several hundred new titles including 90 new poetry books along with an increasing number of youth books, the president of the association of Hungarian publishers and booksellers (MKKE) told a press conference.
“Claims that people and younger generations do not read these days is simply not true,” said Katalin Gal.
If you are interested in Hungarian writers, you might have already read the biggest literary masterpieces of the country: from Ferenc Molnár’s The Paul Street Boys to Magda Szabó’s The Door, Hungarian classics have been translated into multiple languages. If you are on the lookout for something new, the following eight books are the acclaimed works of contemporary Hungarian writers.
1. György Spiró: Captivity
Translated by Tim Wilkinson
One of The Wall Street Journal’s top picks for its list of Best Books of 2015, Captivity is an exciting and enlightening historical saga set in the time of Jesus. It tells the story of a Roman Jew on a quest for the Holy Land.
“The narrative follows Uri from Rome to Jerusalem and back, from prospectless dreamer to political operative to pogrom survivor—who along the way also happens to dine with Herod Antipas and Pontius Pilate and get thrown into a cell with a certain Galilean rabble-rouser. [A] deft combination of philosophical inquiry and page-turning brio should overcome that oft-mentioned American timidity toward books in translation,” The Wall Street Journal writes.
Thirty years after the fall of the communist regime, Hungarian writer Andras Forgách was examining his family’s history. During his research, he unearthed a shocking truth: his mother had been recruited by the Hungarian Communist secret police. She had informed the regime not only about acquaintances but about family, friends, and even her own children. The Acts of My Mother is a story about family, lies, and the possibility of forgiveness.
Photo: Penguin Random House Canada
3. Péter Nádas: A Book of Memories
Translated by: Ivan Sanders and Imre Goldstein
Péter Nádas is a Kossuth and Franz Kafka Prize winner Hungarian writer, whose A Book of Memories, Susan Sontag called “the greatest novel written in our time, and one of the great books of the century.”
Originally published in 1986 after years of battles with censors, A Book of Memories is made up of three multilayered and interlinked first-person narratives. A young Hungarian writer in the 1970s and his love affair with a German poet and an ageing actress. A novel about a German aesthete, whose anti-bourgeois transgressions mirror that of the second narrator. A childhood friend presenting the story of a friendship with a now-dead narrator.
The book is a remarkable exploration of sexual, creative, and political desires, and a poignant sketch of twentieth-century Europe from an acclaimed Hungarian writer.
Photo: Macmillan Publishers
4. Krisztina Tóth: Pixel
Translated by: Owen Good
Thirty short stories, as pixels of a full picture, come together to complete Krisztina Tóth’s book. The short stories about love, grief, and failed self-determination, taken as a whole paint a nuanced picture of relationships. Humour, sorrow, and suffering characterise the individuals populating Tóth’s lively world who come from every age group and class: survivors of the communist regime and the Holocaust, edgy young city dwellers, or a miserable junkie who stumbles on board public transport, injured and high as a kite.
Hungarian Literature Online deemed Pixel “deliberately fragmentary and puzzling; defying definition – a creation all its own,” writing that “Tóth has an unflinching gaze. She is not afraid to confront the sordid and the violent, as well as the foolish and unfortunate side of human nature. These stories are not designed to lift you up and buoy you with confidence – far from it. But there is an honesty that refreshes. This is life, she says. Just accept it.”
Photo: tothkrisztina.hu
5. Tibor Bödőcs: Luigi the Last
Translated by: Katalin Rácz
Tibor Bödőcs is one of the most popular Hungarian comedians. His 2022 novel, Luigi the Last, is a poignant satire about populism and dictatorships mapped out through a bumbling metaphor: politics is a circus, where clowns, power artists, and knife-throwers get all the glory.
In Circus Land, King Luigi and his sleuth celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of the regime. And there’s so much to celebrate! Thanks to the former Ringmaster, everything in Hetticania is coming up roses – quite literally: rose plantations cover the whole country (so no one is unemployed), fault-finders find faults only among themselves (unless they are abroad) – how could anyone of sound mind slander the very epitome of health, honesty, beauty, patriotism, and masculine power?
The book is more “than the current edition of the ‘dictators’ handbook’. [It does not] mystify those holding power, neither pro nor con, but presents them in the simplicity of their biological and spiritual needs […] the unrelenting satire profiles not only the “Cream of the Cream”, but also the whole society that applauds them, puts them and keeps them in power”, Népszava writes.
Photo: Helikon Kiadó
6. György Dragomán: The White King
Translated by: Paul Olchváry
Published in 2005, The White King has been translated into more than 30 languages, bringing international acclaim to Dragomán, and amplifying a unique new voice in contemporary Hungarian fiction.
The White King introduces us to life in an Eastern European dictatorship in the 1980s, as seen through the eyes of a teenage boy, Djata. Tense and disturbing, the book explores the violence within schools and families and the cruelty of adults and children in a regime that breeds brutality. How does an 11-year-old boy cope when his father is taken away in front of him? How can he deal with his new role in the family? What hopes are there for him in the storm of adolescence?
Dragomán’s “prose is scintillating and acrobatic, featuring serpentine sentences that bend with each turn of Djata’s mind. Disregarding standard punctuation, the novel’s language acquires a kind of trudging exuberance – part exhaustion, part frenzy – that amply conveys the boy’s mood,” writes The New York Times.
Photo: Goodreads
7. Andrea Tompa: The Hangman’s House
Translated by: Barnard Adams
The Hangman’s House, set in the 1970s and -80s, tells the story of a Hungarian family’s life in Romania under the dictatorship of Nicolae Ceaușescu. The dictator is everywhere throughout the story—in portraits in schoolbooks, in the empty food stores, on TV, in obligatory Party demonstrations. Most insidiously: in the dreams and nightmares of people.
The narrator is a teenager, simply called “Girl”, who tries to understand the cruelty of the period and her family’s situation in it: why her mother works three jobs, or why her father turns to alcohol. The brutality of the time, and the hardships of the family, though, do not turn Girl accusatory toward her family, instead, her narration is imbued with love and irony.
Photo: Seagull Books
+1: an upcoming translation of a Hungarian writer
László Krasznahorkai: Herscht 07769
Translated by: Ottilie Mulzet
The National Book Award winner’s tour de force novel about neo-Nazis, particle physics, and Johann Sebastian Bach.
The gentle giant Florian Herscht works for the head of a local neo-Nazi gang, who has taken him under his wing and gotten him a job as a graffiti cleaner. After attending physics classes, Florian becomes convinced that disaster is imminent: he is sure that all physical matter will be destroyed soon. So, he sets out to convince Chancellor Angela Merkel of the danger, writing letters to her.
Written in one cascading sentence spanning more than 400 pages, Krasznahorkai’s novel is a triumph: morality play, satire, and a devastating encapsulation of life’s helplessness all in one.
The friendship between China and Hungary has been reflected in the cultural and historical landmarks in Shanghai. These two countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties this year. Below you may read a report by CGTN Cen Ziyuan.
China-Hungary links
The link in literature led by a poem written by renowned 19th-century Hungarian poet Sándor Petőfi.
He wrote: “Liberty and love; / These two I must have. / For my love, I’ll sacrifice my life. / For liberty, I’ll sacrifice my love.”
Statue of Sándor Petőfi stands in Lu Xun Park in Shanghai. Source/CGTN
Lu Xun, a Chinese writer, literary critic, and leading figure in modern Chinese literature, popularized it in China. In China, the statue of Petofi stands in Lu Xun Park in Shanghai, Beijing, and Ningbo. The Hungarian government donated this statue in Shanghai’s Lu Xun Park in 2007 to celebrate the country’s long-lasting friendship with China.
Hungarian-Slovak architect Laszlo Hudec is another European name known to Shanghai residents. He lived in the city for around three decades from 1918 and designed more than 60 buildings. Many of them are still standing and marked as the protected historical sites of Shanghai.
Hudec’s mark in China
The Wukang Masion, which used to serve as the International Savings Society Apartment, is one of the most well-known designs of all. It was located in the former French Concession area of Shanghai. Formerly named Normandie Apartments was renamed in 1953 to Wukang Mansion.
The Wukang Mansion in Shanghai. Source/CGTN
Completed in 1924, the building looks like a giant ship from the outside. It is still used as an apartment building nowadays.
The Grand Cinema and the Park Hotel next to it have witnessed the development and evolution of Shanghai.
Hudec designed the Grand Cinema in 1933 and was seen as a pioneer of Art Deco in China, a style that influenced architecture and design around the world.
The Park Hotel right next to the cinema is another city landmark designed by Hudec. It was Shanghai’s tallest building for more than five decades and was considered the center of the city as Shanghai mapped out the blueprint for its development in early development.
Bence Lengyel, a master’s student at Remin University of China, said he and his friend will tour these buildings when they are homesick.
“I think he is truly inspirational and I am happy that I can share the same cultural heritage as him,” he said, “I think his ideas and designs are what makes him so famous in Shanghai.”
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As spring approaches, so does World Book Day on 23rd April. In Germany alone, 26 million people buy books regularly and on TikTok the Hashtag “#Booktok” has reached nearly 29 million posts. According to a ranking by weloveholidays, Budapest is among the 10 best cities in Europe for literature lovers.
To celebrate the diverse literary culture in Europe, weloveholidayshas analysed data to compile a ranking of Europe’s best cities for book lovers. Looking into the number of bookstores and public libraries and their ratings, as well as the number of books based in each city, the online travel company has revealed a list of the best cities for avid readers.
London, the setting for iconic tales such as Oliver Twist and Mary Poppins takes the top spot. Boasting the most bookstores (164) and setting for over 7,800 stories, the UK’s capital, it’s the top recommended destination for bookworms.
Paris is in second place with 3,000 books set in the French capital. The city is home to 117 bookshops and 103 public libraries, including the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (National Library of France), one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe.
Athens rounds off the top three. The historic home of the Acropolis has the most bookshops on our list with 167. The city is also the setting for 366 books, including Shakespeare’s famous Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Budapest in 6th place
Source: Budapest Metropolitan University Website
These are Europe’s 15 best cities for book lovers:
Rank
City
Country
Number of bookstores
Avg. bookstore ratings
Number of public libraries
Avg. library ratings
Notable book settings
Score
1
London
United Kingdom
164
4.68
157
4.29
7,856
6.44
2
Paris
France
117
4.55
103
4.26
3,057
4.27
3
Athens
Greece
167
4.49
32
4.55
366
3.83
4
Dublin
Ireland
84
4.56
113
4.40
403
3.82
5
Vienna
Austria
145
4.59
12
4.59
925
3.58
6
Budapest
Hungary
113
4.67
25
4.60
224
3.44
7
Berlin
Germany
91
4.63
70
4.24
904
3.38
8
Sofia
Bulgaria
106
4.63
26
4.68
22
3.36
9
Zagreb
Croatia
103
4.64
19
4.64
23
3.19
10
Vilnius
Lithuania
85
4.63
36
4.64
43
3.17
11
Lisbon
Portugal
100
4.59
33
4.50
125
3.11
12
Madrid
Spain
107
4.61
57
4.04
230
3.08
13
Warsaw
Poland
61
4.59
45
4.75
180
3.05
14
Barcelona
Spain
91
4.59
46
4.21
270
2.88
15
Cluj-Napoca
Romania
42
4.70
37
4,71
5
2.85
Other notable cities:
Berlin (7th) also makes it into the top 15 with its 91 bookstores, 70 public libraries, and over 900 books that take place in Berlin.
Spain is the only country ranking with two cities in the top 15. Madrid with 107 bookstores in 13th and Barcelona in 15th. Every year, on 23rd April, Barcelona celebrates the patron saint of Catalonia with roses and books³. This day inspired UNESCO to create the World Book and Copyright Day in 1995.
Fancy a cuppa? We’re here to tell you where to find the best cafés in Budapest.
Budapest boasts a plethora of cafés, each with its own unique charm. Navigating this rich coffee scene may initially seem daunting, but fear not! Embark on a journey with us through the city as we discover the hidden gems of Budapest’s coffee culture.
Centrál Grand Café and Bar
Best cafés in Budapest – Centrál Grand Café and Bar
Step into a realm steeped in history at Centrál Grand Café and Bar. This iconic coffeehouse served as the backdrop to the golden era of Hungarian literature, where luminaries of Nyugat sought inspiration amidst its ornate chandeliers and lofty ceilings. While now a tourist magnet, Centrál still holds a special place in our hearts. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this remarkable café in Budapest, located at 9 Károlyi Street. Besides exceptional coffee, indulge in a hearty meal to fuel your exploration of Budapest.
Magvető Café
Best cafés in Budapest – Magvető Café
Calling all book lovers and coffee connoisseurs! Magvető Café beckons with its cosy ambiance and shelves brimming with books. Snuggle up with a good read and savour their exquisite coffee blends. It’s a match made in heaven! Visit this haven of literature and caffeine at 13 Dohány Street.
Café Zsivágó
One of our personal favourites, Café Zsivágó enchants everyone who steps into this charming café in Budapest. Named after a prominent figure in Russian literature, this coffeehouse exudes old-world charm reminiscent of a bygone era. Their coffees are to die for, but if you need a little warm-up amidst the cold weather, treat yourself to their heavenly mulled wine. Nestled away from the bustling downtown, Café Zsivágó awaits at 55 Paulay Ede Street.
Csendes Létterem
Best cafés in Budapest – Csendes Létterem
Intriguing and inviting, Csendes Létterem captivates passersby with its eclectic decor and tranquil atmosphere. Illuminated by soft lights that spill onto the street, this café place beckons visitors to linger over its exceptional coffee offerings. The name, Csendes Létterem, translates to “Quiet Space for Existing,” a fitting portrayal of the serene ambiance it offers. Discover this hidden gem at 5 Ferenczy István Street.
HAB
Best cafés in Budapest – HAB
Last but not least, HAB promises a fusion of Hungarian artistry and culinary excellence. While the name stands for Hungarian Art and Business, it’s the coffee that steals the show. Relish their delicious passion fruit tapioca pudding alongside your brew. And after satisfying your palate, immerse yourself in the captivating world of art with their complimentary exhibitions, featuring works by esteemed artists. Located within one of Andrássy Avenue’s grand palaces, HAB exudes an air of regal splendour that’s sure to leave you feeling like royalty. Experience it firsthand at 112 Andrássy Avenue.
After a long illness, Gábor Czakó, the Kossuth and Attila József Prize-winning writer, critic, linguist and artist of the nation, passed away at dawn on Wednesday at the age of 82, his family announced.
Gábor Czakó was born in 1942 in Decs. He graduated in law from the University of Pécs in 1965 and worked as a lawyer until 1972, Index writes.
In 1990, he was an advisor to Prime Minister József Antall. From 1997 to 2001, he was a member of the advisory board of MTI’s owners, representing the Christian Democratic People’s Party (KDNP).
His major works include the 1978 novel Várkonyi krónika (The Chronicle of Várkonyi) and the novel Luca néni föltámadása (The Resurrection of Aunt Luca), published in 1987. His novel Megváltó (The Saviour), which was heavily censored in its first edition, was an attempt to develop an epic portrayal of a broader sociological and behavioural-psychological age.
His work has been honoured with numerous awards: the Helikon Sculpture Prize (1960), the Attila József Prize (1975), the Contemporary Prize (1994), the János Arany Prize (2000), the Gáspár Nagy Prize (2008), the Pro Literatura Prize (2008), the Stephanus Prize (2009), the Prima Prize (2010).
In 2011, he was awarded the Kossuth Prize for his contribution to the organisation of Hungarian Catholic journalism education, the creation of the television essay genre, and his versatile and genre-rich literary work.
Hungary is honoring the 250th anniversary of the birth of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz with two new commemorative coins.
Two new forint coins
Last month, the National Bank of Hungary introduced commemorative coins for Ferenc Deák. On November 17, 2023, two new coins are released to mark the 250th anniversary of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz’s birth. These commemorative coins pay tribute to one of the most influential poets of Hungarian Enlightenment literature, Pénzcentrumreports.
Source: Magyar Nemzeti Bank
Source: Magyar Nemzeti Bank
Source: Magyar Nemzeti Bank
Source: Magyar Nemzeti Bank
The scholar poet of the Hungarian Enlightenment
Mihály Csokonai Vitéz, born on November 17, 1773, and revered as the scholar poet (poeta doctus), significantly shaped Hungarian poetry during the Enlightenment era. His literary prowess extended across various genres, from philosophical poems to rococo love poetry, showcasing an innovative approach to content and form. Despite his exceptional talent, Csokonai faced challenges throughout his life, enduring a lack of recognition and financial security. His poems, distributed in manuscript form during his lifetime, gained widespread popularity posthumously. Read about his hometown, Debrecen HERE.
Design and symbolism
The commemorative silver coin, with a face value of HUF 15,000 (approximately EUR 39.82), features a central motif of common chicories, representing a literary attribute associated with Csokonai’s multifaceted poetry. The inscription ’ÉN, ANGYAL MEG ÁLLAT, VAGY CSAK POR MEG PÁRA’ (I, angel and animal, or merely dust and vapour) from ‘Halotti versek’ (Death Poems) by him adorns the edge of the obverse. The reverse showcases a half-length portrait of Csokonai, inspired by an etching by Friedrich John from 1816. Symbolising artistic freedom, both obverse and reverse motifs extend beyond the coin’s edge, with stars adorning the background. Csokonai’s birth and death dates, ‘1773’ and ‘1805’, are elegantly displayed to the right of the portrait.
Who’s the artist behind it?
Borbála Szanyi’s masterful touch is evident in the artistic expression of these commemorative coins. Her signature mark graces the left side of the portrait, emphasising the collaborative effort in bringing Csokonai’s legacy to life. The inscription ‘CSOKONAI VITÉZ MIHÁLY’ encircles the lower left-hand edge of the reverse, set slightly above the base plane and surrounded by a single dot.
A fitting tribute to Csokonai’s literary legacy
The introduction of these commemorative coins not only celebrates the 250th anniversary of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz’s birth but also serves as a lasting tribute to his enduring impact on Hungarian literature. As these coins enter circulation, they become tangible reminders of the profound influence of one of Hungary’s literary luminaries. The silver coin will be available for purchase for three months, while supplies last, and the non-ferrous version for a year from the date of issuance, at face value, in the coin shop and webshop of the Hungarian Mint Ltd. (7 Báthory street, District 5, Budapest), the manufacturer and distributor of the coins, beginning on November 17, 2023.
The 42nd annual edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) has crossed a historic milestone by attracting the highest number of participating countries since its inception in 1981. This edition will play host to 2,033 publishers and exhibitors from 108 nations from around the world. They will collectively present an impressive array of 1.5 million titles, all to be showcased in Expo Centre Sharjah from 1-12 November.
Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and carrying the theme We Speak Books, SIBF 2023 will bring together 600 authors from around the world to sign their new works. This is part of a comprehensive cultural, creative, and entertaining 12-day agenda that includes over 1,700 activities led by 215 guests from 69 countries targeting all age groups and diverse interests.
This year, SIBF celebrates South Korea as the Guest of Honour, showcasing the republic’s unique knowledge and cultural landscape covering literature, art, technology, and culture. The cultural extravaganza will also host an exhibition in collaboration with the Portuguese University of Coimbra featuring 60 historical artefacts. Furthermore, the book fair has dedicated 6 interactive spaces to upskill visitors and enrich their knowledge.
This announcement was made during a press conference held at the SBA headquarters where H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; H.E. Moon Byung-iun, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Dubai; Salem Al Ghaithi, Director of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority; Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF; and Mansour AlHassani, Director of Publisher’s Services at SBA, unveiled the agenda of the highly anticipated international event. The conference was also attended by Mohammed Al Amimi, Vice President Business Engagement & Customer Support, ‘Etisalat by e&’, as well as officials and media representatives.
Sharjah: The Silk Road for Publishers
During his keynote speech, H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, affirmed that Sharjah has become a hub connecting the East and West. This achievement is attributed to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who recognised the importance of knowledge and books in nation-building and the advancement of civilisations. Al Ameri pointed out that the emirate not only facilitates access to books for readers everywhere but also aspires to become the “Silk Road” for publishers worldwide. These achievements have been widely recognised and lauded globally.
H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA.
Al Ameri said, “The emirate’s relentless efforts have led to significant global milestones, guided by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, who has spearheaded the advancement of the publishing industry in Sharjah, the UAE, and the world. She has laid solid foundations for the development of the country’s publishing sector. Today, she continues this journey as the Chairperson of SBA.”
Al Ameri concluded by saying,
“Today, we are not only here to announce the details of SIBF 2023 but also to take a new step in a cultural project that has been evolving for forty-two years. This project emphasises that books are the cornerstone of developmental plans for countries in the region and globally. That’s why we have chosen the theme ‘We Speak Books’ for the 42nd edition.”
During his speech at the press conference H.E, Moon Byung-iun, Consul General of the Republic of Korea said, “Korea’s methods of modernising its culture while preserving its past roots aligns perfectly with Sharjah’s values of supporting cultural creativity while preserving its local heritage and history. I believe that the cultural exchange between Sharjah and South Korea will continue to deepen and therefore open new paths of exchange that were never explored before. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sharjah Book Authority for their amazing efforts to bring more than 20 South Korean authors, novelists, poets, calligraphers to Sharjah to exhibit their work and share their knowledge through talks, workshops and many more cultural programs.”
‘We Speak Books’
Reflecting on the SIBF 2023 slogan, Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF, said: “We Speak Books embodies SIBF’s comprehensive vision for the book and culture industry. It has evolved beyond an event for buying and selling books to become a global hub for exchanging expertise, ideas, and knowledge. It also serves as a platform for securing publishing and translation agreements and a forum for discussing literary, artistic, and intellectual issues, attracting a diverse audience from all segments of society, whether they are avid book readers or interested in creative industries related to books.”
Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF1043 Arab publishers amd 900 international
This year, 1043 Arab and 990 international publishers will showcase over 1.5 million titles, including 800,000 in Arabic and 700,000 in other languages during SIBF 2023. The UAE, Egypt and Lebanon top the list of Arab publishers taking part in the 42nd edition and on the international front, publishers from India, the UK, and Turkey top the international list.
127 Guests to Spearhead 460 Cultural Activities The 42nd edition will feature a constellation of esteemed writers, thinkers, intellectuals, and artists, including Nobel laureates and recipients of distinguished Arab and international accolades. The exhibition will congregate 127 Arab and international guests from 33 countries to steer 460 cultural endeavours, encompassing panel discussions, immersive workshops, and sessions spanning various artistic expressions and literary genres.
Emirati and Arab Guests SIBF 2023 will welcome eminent Emirati writers and intellectuals, such as poet Khaled Al-Badou, Dr. Mashael Al Nabooda, Adel Khozam, Mohammed Al Jokar, Suad Al-Araimi, Fathia Al Nimr, Dr. Aisha Al-Ghais, and Saeed Al Badi.
From the Arab domain, SIBF will host Algerian novelist Ahlam Mosteghanemi; Egyptian writer and screenwriter Ahmed Mourad; Kuwaiti author Dr. Mohamed Al Ghandour; Kuwaiti novelist Bothayna Al Issa; Lebanese poet Talal Haidar; Egyptian poet Nour Abdel Meguid; Egyptian media figure Reham Ayad; Kuwaiti poet Sheryan AlDihanni; Egyptian novelist and journalist Tareq Imam; Saudi poet Fahad AlShahrani; published physiognomy and body language experts Sarah and Hajar Abdul Rahman; Qatari poet Nasser Alober; along with many others.
International Guests Prominent international figures gracing SIBF 2023 include English-born Canadian journalist Malcolm Gladwell; Indian actress Kareena Kapoor; Swedish behavioural expert and author Thomas Erikson; Nigerian playwright and novelist Wole Soyinka; British-Pakistani novelist and writer Mohsin Hamid; Czech-Canadian scientist Vaclav Smil; American astronaut Sunita Williams; Dutch author Swami Purnachaitanya; Indian writer Monika Halan; among others.
Exhibition featuring 60 historical artefacts
The 42nd edition will feature an exhibition in collaboration with the University of Coimbra. This exhibition delves into the Portuguese presence in the Gulf and the cultural relationships forged there during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. It will display 60 historical artefacts, including manuscripts, rare books, maps, and maritime tools. This exhibition underscores the profound relationship between the University of Coimbra and Sharjah, further solidified by the conferment of an honorary degree to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and the Ruler of Sharjah, in 2018. Concurrently, a series of sessions will be organised, featuring esteemed historians discussing various facets of Portuguese history in the region.
Thriller Festival The eagerly awaited second edition of the Thriller Festival is slated from November 8-10, in partnership with Thriller Festival NY. This 3-day event will congregate acclaimed thriller and crime genre writers with their aficionados. This year, the festival will spotlight ten international authors, including bestsellers, to engage with mystery and suspense enthusiasts in the region. Featured authors comprise Felix Francis, Ivy Pochoda, Candice Fox, J.D. Barker, Danielle Trussoni, Alex Finlay, Max Seeck, Blake Crouch, C.J. Howe, and Kathleen Antrim.
Six interactive spaces
This year, SIBF 2023 features six interactive spaces targeting various demographics. They will be home to 900 workshops led by more than 31 guests from 12 countries, offering new and diverse activities. The workshops will cover self-reflection, emotional balance, and self-improvement, as well as comics, child literature, inventions and innovation workshops tailored for children and youth. For the older visitors, the 12-day book fair will organise workshops on animation, interpersonal skills, and handicrafts. In addition, the six interactive spaces offer motivational and collaborative workshops for both adults and children, including creative writing workshops and advanced topics such as sign language and supporting individuals with disabilities.
130 Shows Featuring Theatre, Dance Performances, and Musicals
A captivating lineup of 130 theatrical performances and musicals, directed by artists and performers from 14 countries, will be showcased during the 12-day event.
SIBF 2023 will also premiere the musical play “Barcode Prison,” the most significant Emirati theatrical production in 2023. The cast includes Emirati actors Marwan Abdullah, Ahmed Mal Allah, Musa Al Bukishi, Bader Hakmi, Haifa Al Ali, and Reem Al Faisal. Directed by Marwan Abdullah Saleh, the play humorously and musically addresses the issue of bullying.
The cultural extravaganza will also host a children’s musical by the ALJ Sisters Band, starring Aljoud Albaanon, Wadha Alayoub, and Aljourry Albaanon. The play is about three girls experiencing various situations that teach them valuable lessons and social values.
Cookery Corner The Cookery Corner this year will welcome 12 international chefs, each showcasing their distinct culinary prowess and cultural nuances through 45 dynamic activities. Participating chefs include Kim Kyeongmin and Kim Joohyun from South Korea, Torie True from the UK, Yohanis Gebreyesus from Ethiopia, Barbara Massad from Lebanon, Suzanne Husseni from Canada, Sally Butcher from the UK, Irina George from Romania, Marianna Leivaditaki from Greece, Chef Suresh Pilla blending UK and Indian flavours, and Krish Ashok from India.
Social Media Station
Throughout the 12-day book fair, the Social Media Station will host workshops and specialised sessions covering a diverse range of topics, including enhancing partnerships and collaborations with social media influencers and trends, artificial intelligence, as well as the production of AI-enhanced content.
South Korea’s Guest of Honour Programme In celebration of its status as SIBF 2023’s Guest of Honour, South Korea will curate engaging activities under its cultural program titled ‘Imagination Without Borders.’ The vibrant agenda encompasses 15 cultural programs, 7 panel discussions, and 5 musical renditions by select South Korean artists. The honorary guest will also feature 3 distinguished chefs at the Cookery Corner, alongside children’s entertainment and activities. Notable participants from South Korea include artists Kyung Hyewon, Kim Sangkeun, and Park Hyunmin, accompanied by author Jeong Munee; Ahn Jina, Associate Professor at Okinawa International University; Kim Ho, HK Professor at Seoul National University Asia Center and Emeritus Professor Lee Hee at Hanyang University Soo.
More than 600 book signing sessions
This year, SIBF 2023 will host more than 300 authors from around the world who will autograph their new works, while the dedicated “Book Corner” will host over 300 authors from 12 countries who will launch their new titles during the book fair
Publisher’s Training
SIBF 2023, in collaboration with New York University, will orchestrate a training programme centred on international publishing standards and practices for 120 publishers. This encompasses 20 from the UAE, 50 Arab publishers, and 50 African publishers. This year’s curriculum will explore the potency of podcasts and storytelling in augmenting profits in the publishing realm, as well as data strategies for publisher triumph.
13th Publishers Conference
The eagerly awaited Publishers Conference will span three days from 29-31 October. Over 42 speakers and experts will helm 4 keynote speeches and 31 roundtables on day one, addressing pivotal issues and challenges confronting the publishing sector. On day two and three, the conference will facilitate matchmaking sessions between publishers, to negotiate over topics such as the buying and selling of rights, and translation agreements. The event will also ultimately serve as a forum for discussing ways to bolster the sector, share expertise, and broker new deals.
The 13th edition will commence with the participation of high-level officials in the publishing sector, including Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority; Núria Cabutí Brull, CEO of Penguin Random House Grupo; and Ian Chapman, Chief Executive and Publisher, Simon & Schuster UK and International; and Cheolho Yoon, Chairman of the Korean Publishers Association, and head of the South Korean Guest of Honour Delegation.
The international conference brings together publishers, and literary agents from 105 countries, including 11 participating for the first time: Benin, Ivory Coast, the Czech Republic, Mauritius, Paraguay, Burkina Faso, Zaire, Malawi, Guinea, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
Sharjah Publisher Recognition Award and ABC Awards
During the Publishers Conference, winners of the Sharjah Publisher Recognition Award will be announced with 58 candidates including 42 literary agents, and 16 publishers from 58 countries who applied for the award.
Furthermore, the Accessible Books Consortium (ABC) has chosen the Publishers Conference to announce the winners of the second edition of the ABC International Excellence Award for Accessible Publishing, which aims to honour publishers that produce books for the visually impaired.
Sharjah International Library Conference
The 10th iteration of the Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC), in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA), is scheduled from November 7th to 9th. It will assemble over 400 international librarians and specialists representing diverse libraries in the US and around 30 additional countries.
Salem Al Ghaithi, Director of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, stated, “Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is a prestigious international event that attracts visitors from all over the world. We are proud to collaborate on the media coverage and broadcast of SIBF to convey its cultural richness to households in Sharjah and beyond. Our commitment to promoting culture in Emirati society is evident in our extensive and responsible coverage of SIBF. We run a dedicated satellite office from the fair’s grounds throughout the 12-day event, and a significant number of our team members are present to cover the activities on our various platforms and channels. We highlight the most prominent authors and publishers, provide an overview of the event’s literary and cultural scene, and enable the audience to connect with these distinguished authors, making SIBF an unforgettable experience.”
SIBF 2023 is supported by a range of strategic sponsorships and partnerships, including Etisalat by e& as the official sponsor; the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority as the official media partner; and Expo Centre Sharjah the strategic partner of SIBF.
The Association of Hungarian Publishers and Book Distributors (MKKE) organised the 28th Budapest International Book Festival between 28 September and 1 October 2023 at the Millenáris. The Book Festival is the most important event in the international book world and the region’s leading professional and cultural forum.
The four-day event featured 140 exhibitors, over 40 foreign authors, 180 programmes and more than 200 book signings on Millenáris Park, in Buildings B (Great Hall) and D (Glass Hall), at the Europa-Point and in the National Dance Theatre.
A special children’s section, Children’s literature, promoted children’s books and reading, and offered a colourful programme for families in Millenáris D.
The Budapest International Book Festival traditionally hosts the world’s most prestigious writers and poets. This year’s guest of honour was the popular American science fiction writer John Scalzi, who received the Budapest Grand Prize from the Mayor of Budapest.
This year’s Guest of Honour was the Netherlands. In recent years, the number of Dutch books published in Hungarian translation has been exceptionally high, even in Central Europe. The slogan of the Dutch pavilion reflected this: “on the sea of books”.
Visitors to the Book Festival were able to meet dozens of prominent Dutch writers, poets and illustrators, including Arnon Grunberg, author and journalist of The Man Without a Disease, Abram de Swaan, essayist and sociologist, Martin Michael Driessen, writer, theatre and opera director, and Annemarie Bon, popular youth author. The Guest of Honour stand featured a succession of round tables, thematic discussions and readings.
The Book Festival was opened by Ildikó Boldizsár, József Attila Prize-winning author, storyteller, folklorist and story therapist, who celebrates her 60th birthday this year. Speeches were given by Désirée Bonis, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Budapest, and Arnon Grunberg, Guest of Honour of the Netherlands.
Désirée Bonis, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Budapest. Photo: MTI
Désirée Bonis, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Budapest, said in her welcome speech that the popularity of the Book Festival, which is now in its twenty-eighth year, shows that Hungarians are a book-loving people.
It is an honour to have the Netherlands as our guest of honour this year, she said, adding that after more than a year of preparation, the cream of Dutch literature would be present at the Book Festival in the coming days.
“A number of Dutch authors would take part in talks, book signings and other events, and the Dutch stand at the festival would feature both Dutch books in Hungarian and Hungarian writings in Dutch,” said Desirée Bonis.
Dutch writer Arnon Grunberg recalled the totalitarian dictatorships that plagued Europe, adding that we are now “living in an age of rationality and reason”. But people still want to follow ideologies while they also want justice, even though the two can easily conflict, he warned.
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
The international character of the book festival was reinforced by the book stalls on each floor, each themed by a country.
The Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Hungary had a large stand for those interested in the country and Arab culture. On offer were several Saudi fairy tales for children, translated into Hungarian, so that visitors could learn about a Saudi story, while adults could learn about the futuristic minds of Vision 2030 in smaller publications.
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Türkiye was represented by the Yunus Emre Institute in Budapest, while Romania, Palestine and the Polish Institute representing Poland were also present. German and Russian literature was also on display.
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Big success at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival 2023. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), has affirmed that Sharjah is solidifying its status as a global cultural hub, and serves as a reliable destination for all those seeking to discover Arab culture and its rich history and contributions to humankind.
The SBA Chairperson also noted that the emirate’s prestigious cultural platforms like the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), further advance communication between nations, making the global cultural landscape more diverse and vibrant.
Sharjah International Book Fair 2023
These statements were made by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) on the occasion of the announcement of the Republic of South Korea as Guest of Honour at the upcoming 42nd edition of SIBF, which will be held from November 1-12 in Expo Centre Sharjah.
The international event provides an unparalleled platform to engage with a diverse group of writers, thinkers, and cultural figures worldwide.
South Korea’s nomination for the emirate’s biggest cultural event is poised to celebrate the richness of the centuries-old Korean culture and heritage, as well as familiarise SIBF’s guests and visitors with the latest developments in their cultural, literary and creative landscape. The pioneering ways in which South Korea has modernised its cultural landscape by being strongly rooted in its past, has garnered immense attention and popularity across the Arab region and the world.
The republic’s selection as SIBF’s GoH for the upcoming edition also further solidifies the longstanding cultural ties between Sharjah and South Korea, which celebrated the emirate as their Guest of Honour at the 65th edition of the Seoul International Book Fair this June.
Commenting on SIBF’s global cultural importance, Sheikha Bodour stated,
“Thanks to the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, SIBF has established itself as an exemplary Arab accomplishment, and we are elevating its role to enrich global culture. It has served as a platform for publishers, book industry professionals, and libraries to flourish, build partnerships, and strengthen relationships with their target audience. Moreover, the event has broadened the horizons for newer developments in Arab culture, enabling it to reach broader segments of society.”
For his part, HE Ahmed bin Rakad Al Ameri, CEO of Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), said: “Celebrating the cultural experience of South Korea embodies the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, which has transformed the emirate into a prominent hub of culture and education in the region and around the world. SIBF is designed on HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi’s belief that books and knowledge create the strongest and most sustainable foundations for longstanding cultural dialogue between nations and peoples. It also opens new avenues for partnerships and collaboration between the UAE’s and Arab world’s knowledge market with their global counterparts”.
Guest of Honour – Sharjah International Book Fair:
“This November, South Korean culture, history, customs & practices, and their scientific and technological advancements will meet Emirati culture’s authentic Arab values, rich history, and heritage. This represents an opportunity for the public, publishers, library owners, and book institutions to directly engage with a distinguished culture of the far east. SIBF serves as a platform to strengthen their connections with local and global markets. At the same time, our Guest of Honour programme has served as an ideal gateway for new cultural accomplishments like the establishment of institutes, signing of partnerships, and the launching of initiatives over the past years that brought Sharjah and the UAE closer to nations worldwide,” he added.
The South Korean pavilion at SIBF 2023 will present a rich cultural programme of activities and events that reflect the aesthetics and diversity of Korean culture, which is particularly popular amongst the youth. Through panel discussions, workshops, culinary demonstrations, and artistic performances, visitors will have the chance to learn about the history, civilisation and arts of South Korea. The pavilion will also host several authors and cultural figures from South Korea who will share their experiences and perspectives with the audience.
Sharjah International Book Fair 2022
Sharjah International Book Fair is considered one of the most prominent cultural events in the region and the world. Each year, it attracts millions of book and culture enthusiasts, facilitating the buying and selling of publishing rights between publishers and authors and supporting the region’s book industry. In 2022, the book fair brought together more than 2,213 publishers from 95 countries alongside 150 writers and thinkers from 57 countries. Over the course of 12 days, it featured 1,500 cultural, artistic, and entertainment events, and for the second year in a row, it earned the title of the largest book fair in the world in the sale and purchase of publishing rights.
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, hoisted the UAE’s flag high in celebration of Sharjah, the Guest of Honour at the 65th Seoul International Book Fair, which commenced with an inspiring Korean-Emirati cultural dialogue today (Wednesday). This vibrant cross-cultural exchange will continue to grow, flourish and inspire over the next four days until June 18, and testifies to the prestigious literary event’s deep appreciation for the emirate’s unparalleled expertise in translating the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to build bridges with nations and cities worldwide.
The book fair’s opening ceremony was held in the presence of HE Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah’s Government Relations Department (DGR) and head of the Sharjah delegation to Seoul; Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority Board (SBA); Sheikh Saud Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Digital Office; HE Kim Keon-hee, First Lady of the Republic of Korea; H.E. Abdulla Saif Ali Slayem AlNuaimi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; HE Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Cheol-ho Yoon, Chairman of the Korean Publishers Association and Chairman of Seoul International Book Fair; and other senior officials and VIPs.
The Sharjah delegation includes 180 representatives from government institutions and UAE media, who as part of the emirate’s Guest of Honour programme, will advance His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah’s cultural project that fuels global cultural exchange by presenting fair visitors, publishers, educators, and others a vivid picture of the emirate’s successful experience in disseminating knowledge, art, and literature.
In his keynote speech, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, and head of the Sharjah delegation praised South Korea’s leading efforts to preserve its heritage, and also successfully adopt technology to immerse the world in its literature, culture, language, food and entertainment.
“It is something I understand very well because His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has been leading Sharjah the same way,”
he further remarked adding that it is this very “vision for development of education, culture and knowledge while protecting our heritage, and a vision to build innovation on the backbone of a strong and unique identity in a more and more homogenous global culture” that nurtures successive generations with a deep rooted mutual respect and understanding of other cultures.
In conclusion, the DGR Chairman said:
“The presence of Sharjah as a Guest of Honour at the Seoul International Book Fair raises a fundamental question for us: why are we here and what do we want to offer the Korean audience? We are not here just to showcase our publications, or our cultural, artistic and literary initiatives and events. We are here to participate in a cultural dialogue that contributes to enhancing civilisational exchange. We look forward to learning from South Korea’s experience in education, creativity, development and adopting advanced technologies. Our presence amongst you all reflects our deep faith in culture as a medium to know others, as a tool for learning, creativity and development, and as a value that upholds heritage, identity and belongingness.”
Bodour Al Qasimi: We share a common experience in investing in culture
For her part, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA said: “Sharjah and South Korea share a common experience in investing in culture to create a flourishing cultural scene that inspires the world and contributes to socioeconomic progress. For over five decades, the emirate has built a cultural environment centred around books and reading, based on its belief in the key role of books in developing nations and societies, particularly the younger generations. Sharjah’s openness to other cultures and peoples and our committed efforts to promote dialogue and understanding stems from this very belief in the positive influence of books and literature.”
“In every book fair, we have experienced magical moments of cultural curiosity, exchange and learning that have fostered respect for the nations we have visited. We always leave book fairs with the firm conviction that through these events we can promote peace, understanding and respect in this world. Book fairs are not just places to buy and sell books or exchange cultural knowledge. They are also key platforms to debate on issues and challenges we face as an industry and as a human family; two of them being climate change and sustainability,” she added.
The First Lady of South Korea welcomes Sharjah
In her keynote speech, Kim Keon-hee, First Lady of the Republic of Korea, expressed her happiness about hosting Sharjah at the book fair, and lauded its Guest of Honour programme featuring creative initiatives, cultural, artistic and literary events designed for the 5-day event. The First Lady warmly welcomed all participating Korean and international publishers, praising their influential role in supporting and developing the publishing and creative industries. Keon-hee also emphasised on the role of the Seoul Book Fair as a platform for cultural exchange and as a hub for learning about the latest trends in publishing, education, art and writing.
Book fairs represent the essence of human culture
For his part, Cheol-ho Yoon described book fairs as the crossing of an annual milestone for passionate readers and cultural enthusiasts. He stated that the book fair in Seoul reflects the essence of human culture and the roots of Korean literature, and provides an opportunity to learn about other cultures. He also praised the role of publishers in contributing to peace and development in the world. He added: “We are grateful to Sharjah, our Guest of Honour, which enjoys a rich history of constructive cultural work that has earned the city a leading position in the cultural industry. We look forward to learning more about the emirate’s experiences and initiatives in spreading knowledge and dialogue among peoples”.
Sharjah pavilion inauguration
The opening day of the Seoul book fair witnessed the official inauguration of the Sharjah Guest of Honour pavilion. Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi and Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi accompanied the First Lady of the Republic of Korea, diplomats and senior officials from cultural, creative and media institutions in South Korea on a tour of the pavilion. Visitors were introduced to Sharjah’s leading projects in various fields including art, heritage, creative industries, translation and publishing. Officials were also briefed on the literary works from Sharjah on display, including literary works by His Highness The Ruler of Sharjah that visitors to the event can enrich their personal libraries with.
The Chairman of the Seoul International Book Fair accompanied Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, and the UAE delegation on a tour of the fair’s pavilions, where they engaged with publishers and learned about their latest releases in various fields, and exchanged conversations with, authors, and visitors from Korea, the UAE, and the world.
At the end of the opening ceremony, the Sharjah National Band performed a traditional Emirati song and dance on the main stage of the fair, showcasing aspects of the UAE’s heritage, culture and identity. The band demonstrated their skills in presenting folk dances that tell stories of the ancestral lifestyle of Sharjah residents and the UAE, which was well-liked by the audience.
33 activities by 13 cultural institutions
SBA, in collaboration with a number of cultural institutions in Sharjah, is organising a wide-ranging cultural programme that extends over five days and includes 33 events, including panel discussions, workshops, book signings, literary and artistic activities that reflect the heritage of the emirate and the UAE. The Sharjah pavilion will host Emirati and South Korean writers, creators, and academics who will participate in various events to enhance the emirate’s presence in the global cultural scene.
The cultural delegation led by SBA includes Sharjah’s Government Relations Department, Emirates Writers Union, Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Emirates Publishers Association, Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association, Sharjah Archaeology Authority, the UAE Board on Books for Young People, Kalimat Group, House of Wisdom, Sharjah Department of Culture, and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.
On June 9, 2023, the Liszt Institute, Hungarian Cultural Centre, Delhi, India in collaboration with Fingerprint Publishing, commemorated the 110th birth anniversary of the extraordinary artist Amrita Shergil by a book launch. The event was curated by Dr. Marianne Erdő, Director of the Liszt Institute, Hungarian Cultural Centre, Delhi. The event took place at the Embassy of Hungary in New Delhi.
H.E. Mr. István Szabó, Ambassador of Hungary in India briefly spoke about Amrita Shergil and her contribution to the world of art. Thereafter, he officially released the book “Amrita & Victor” in the presence of Mr. Ashwini Bhatnagar, Author, Dr. Marianne Erdő, Director of the Liszt Institute and Dr. Alka Pande, Art Historian.
The book “Amrita & Victor” explores the passion and intimacy between the noted Modern Art Painter, Amrita Shergil and Victor Egan, their conflict with social mores, and the way their unconventional relationship shaped Amrita’s art, both directly and indirectly. It is a love story rather than a history of her art. It is a novel about an unconventional woman and her cousin, Victor Egan. Author, Mr. Ashwini Bhatnagar, has till now written 18 books, both fiction and nonfiction. He is a journalist with several decades of experience with major newspapers.
After the book launch, there was an interesting conversation between the author and Dr. Alka Pande, noted art historian. The author said that the book is about the relationship between Amrita Shergil and Victor Egan. He stated that the book is about the couple’s search for identity and living with the personal choices they made along the way. It reveals how a woman experiments between western and Indian lifestyles to find her own centre as a person, and as a professional painter. The book seeks to depict the dilemmas and conflicts that the couple faced to have a life together.
Amrita struggled to carve out a personal and artistic identity for herself and Victor stood solidly behind her with his unconditional support. Author said Victor’s unconditional support made him a prime example of what a modern liberal man ought to be. Amrita Shergil was extraordinarily talented, incredibly beautiful and free-spirited. She created iconic artwork on common folk to emerge as India’s most celebrated painter. She was art rolled into life, and also a life spread out as art. Her premature death was tragic.
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
The Hungarian Cultural Centre launched the book Amrita and Victor in India. Photo: Gopalan Rajamani
There was an exhibition of photos displaying rare photographs of Amrita Shergil, Victor Egan and others.
A dramatised reading of excerpts from the book was done by Mr. Santanu Bose, Associate Professor and Dean (Academics) of the National School of Drama, Delhi, and Ms. Prerna Joshi, alumni of National School of Drama. A living painting of Amrita Shergil titled ‘Group of Three Sisters’ was enacted by three talented alumni of the National School of Drama. During the dramatised reading from the book, the living painting characters came out of the frame and freely interacted with the actors. The audience was mesmerised by the unique presentation of living painting.
The function was very well attended by a large number of invitees.
As we wrote a few days ago, Indian low-cost airline IndiGo is planning a major international expansion and fleet expansion, and Budapest is also among their desired destinations, details HERE.
