Ivan Vladislavić, CarolAnn “CA” Davids, Darrel Bristow-Bovey, and Margie Orford are among the more than 40 writers who will take part in this year’s Books on the Bay festival in Simon’s Town from Friday to Sunday next week, say the organisers.
Readings, panel discussions, book launches, a poetry evening and two stage performances will be among this year’s events.
One of the performances features radio personality John Maytham while the other is a comedy revue, written by Nicholas Ellenbogen, that pokes fun at Simon’s Town’s ongoing baboon issues – a source of some tension for residents over the years.
New this year is a tuk-tuk service that will ferry festival-goers between venues for free.
One of the organisers, Professor David Attwell, said last year’s event had beaten all expectations.
“The town came together to provide incredible support, attracting around 2 000 people to Simon’s Town to enjoy an exceptional line-up of renowned writers, some with global recognition.”
A highlight this year, he said, would be a panel discussion on the connection between Arabic and Afrikaans, led by Professor Hein Willemse at the Thomas Street Mosque.
“This session contributes to the exploration of the diversity of Afrikaans and its historical roots, building upon last year’s engaging discussion led by Zeid Baker on his father’s translation of the Qur’an into Afrikaans.”
Author Justin Fox, who will be participating in the festival on the Saturday, describes his book, Place, as a tribute to South Africa, offering readers a journey into the heart of the country and the inner worlds of some of its most celebrated authors.
“Writing is typically a solitary activity, making the festival a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow writers and readers, discussing recent works and upcoming projects.”
Poet and writer Finuala Dowling, who is returning to the festival for a second time, believes it is a vital part of the country’s literary community.
“While we often purchase books by international writers, festivals like this remind readers and book buyers that False Bay, Cape Town, and South Africa as a whole are home to a wealth of world-class writers who deserve recognition.”
As for the festival events she’s most excited about, Ms Dowling said: “It’s difficult to choose, but I’m particularly looking forward to Margie Orford speaking about her memoir, Love and Fury, Justin Fox discussing the literary landmarks of South Africa, John Maytham performing a script I compiled about False Bay’s history and stories, and the founders of the Weekly Mail and Vrye Weekblad talking about the 2024 elections.”
For more information on Books on the Bay, contact Karin Cronje at 072 897 136 or karincronje@mweb.co.za. Or visit booksonthebay.simonstown.com
