Freedom theme for book fair
This month's theme at the Durban Book Fair is twenty-five years of freedom, which will be showcased through writing that tells powerful South African stories.
FORMER Umkhonto weSizwe soldier Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo’s book, My Journey to Robben Island, will headline the Durban Book Fair (#DBF) on Sunday, 7 April at Mitchell Park.
“This month’s theme is twenty-five years of freedom and we want to showcase writing that tells powerful South African stories,” said Kiru Naidoo, who is one of the volunteers organising the fair.
He added that Durban is a UNESCO City of Literature and that the book fair gives expression to the vibrant reading culture in the city.
The day-long programme starts at 10am with a poetry recital by Cara van Heerden. This will be followed by acclaimed photographer Kevin Joseph talking about his unique relationship with Madiba which has come out in the book Mandela in Focus.
Dr Dhlomo will speak at the bandstand at noon, which will be followed by a book signing.
Other authors and poets are on the programme until 3pm.
ALSO READ: Book selling project a success
This Sunday’s event will also present contributions to the #DBF’s “flash mob” poetry call with submissions from around the country. The working title of the call was These Songs of Freedom. Naidoo said that they were working feverishly to get the collection of poems into print by this Sunday, but that a 27 April launch date was looking more realistic.
The #DBF will once again host the Denis Hurley Centre’s Booksellers of Mzansi. This unique project has enabled homeless people to earn a dignified living from selling donated books.
“Many of the booksellers are no longer homeless as they now have the means to pay for a shelter or shared accommodation,” added Naidoo.
People wishing to clear out their unwanted books can arrange for collection by calling 083 778 1991.
Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Berea Mail WhatsApp number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts
