Open Book Festival

23/07/2024

Discover Nicky Greenberg's debut novel, "A Short Life", in this interview with Pippa Hudson. Fancy a read? Grab your copy at The Book Lounge and join us at Open Book Festival, 6-8 September.

Pippa speaks to journalist and TV producer Nicky Greenwall, who is new to fiction writing and has just published her debut novel, A Short Life.

23/07/2024

Get a taste of Hamza Koudri's captivating prose below, in an excerpt from his debut novel, "Sand Roses". Grab your copy at The Book Lounge and meet Hamza Koudri at Open Book Festival from 6-8 September!

The JRB presents an excerpt from Sand Roses, the debut novel by Hamza Koudri. Sand RosesHamza KoudriHolland House Books, 2023 Five i The outer door shut with a loud bang. Someone was violently beating at it. Something was wrong. Fahima sat up in the darkness of her room and listened.

20/07/2024

Just in: The Weekend Special has published a fantastic write-up about our upcoming lineup for Open Book Festival. Have a read and let us know which participants you're excited to see!

See all the Open Book Festival participants for 2024 - support these writers and delve into their works ahead of the event by purchasing their books at The Book Lounge.

16/07/2024

Open Book Festival is fast approaching, and we're over the moon to share our incredible lineup of participants!

This year, we're welcoming a diverse group of authors, poets, and thinkers who will use books as a lens to spark important conversations. We look forward to welcoming back several favourites, as well as some new voices, including writers from across the African continent. Here are some of the amazing participants you can see in September. Head to our website to see the full list:

https://openbookfestival.co.za/authors/

10/06/2024

What a fantastic Workshop Week we've had! Our sessions brought together writers, creatives, and literature lovers for an inspiring few days of hands-on learning.

A huge thank you to Bertha House for hosting us, and to all everyone else who made Workshop Week possible. We also want to thank all the talented facilitators who shared their expertise and passion with us.

Though Workshop Week has concluded, the fun is just beginning. Stay tuned for our main festival programme in September, brimming with unmissable panels, readings, performances, and more. Be sure to follow us and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.

In the meantime, savour these glimpses from the workshops and get excited for what's to come. Let us know your highlights from the week in the comments below!

03/06/2024

SJ speaks to UCT lecturer and editor Bongani Kona and NB Publisher publicisit Helene Coetzee about the sessions they will be facilitating during the Open Book Festival’s workshop week 3-8 June.

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02/06/2024

Don't miss your chance to join Workshop Week!

There are still some spots left for you to be part of this immersive skill-sharing experience, from 3 - 8 June at Bertha House.

Whether you're a budding novelist, poet, or creative non-fiction writer, our program caters to writers of all levels and genres.

Book via Webtickets, or click through from our website.

See you there!

31/05/2024

Embark on a transformative journey of gratitude and self-discovery with Vuyokazi Ngemntu's "Writing Joy: A Praxis of Gratitude" workshop.

As a celebrated writer-performer whose powerful praxis interweaves poetry, storytelling, and ritual, Vuyokazi invites you to explore the profound healing that emerges from appreciating life's blessings. Through evocative writing exercises and nurturing guidance, she'll help you tap into a wellspring of joy and gratitude, even amidst adversity.

Book via Webtickets or our website.
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/writing-joy-a-praxis-of-gratitude/

30/05/2024

Unlock the power of the personal to explore the universal. Join acclaimed poets Melissa Sussens and Kirsten Deane as they guide you through the transformative practice of autoethnographic writing in their "Society Through a Poetic Lens" workshop.

Sussens, the author of the celebrated "Slaughterhouse" collection, brings her distinctive voice and perspective as a teaching assistant and poetry editor. Deane, a PhD candidate delving into disability representation in South African literature, lends her expertise in creative methodologies and lived experiences. Together, they'll demonstrate how to harness the potency of individual narratives to shed light on broader societal issues.

Whether you're an aspiring writer seeking to find your authentic voice or a curious soul hungering for fresh ways to examine the human condition, this workshop promises a profoundly insightful and empowering experience.

Book via Webtickets or our website.
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/society-through-a-poetic-lens/

29/05/2024

Being an active citizen requires more than focusing your attention for one day at the polls. True civic participation demands an ongoing commitment to engage with issues, challenge perspectives, and foster a vibrant marketplace of ideas.

Our main Festival runs from 6-8 September, and it is a gathering place for active citizens to engage in vital conversations that shape our society.

Join us in creating a space where authors, thinkers, and community members come together to explore the pressing issues of our time through the lens of literature. From political discourse to social justice, from climate action to cultural identity, this festival is a cornerstone of democracy – a forum where diverse voices are welcomed and heard, and perspectives can be challenged and expanded.

Mark your calendars to be a part of a festival for the intellectually curious, the socially conscious, and those who believe in the power of ideas to catalyze positive change.

28/05/2024

Join Alistair Mackay for a session exploring the transformative power of reading. Delve into why we're drawn to books, how to unlock deeper c***ections with the stories we love, and foster enriching discussions that bridge our shared human experiences through literature. Book now to be part of this reading community.

The Art of Reading
Thursday 6 June, 10am - 12pm

Book via Webtickets or click through from our website.
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/the-art-of-reading-getting-the-most-out-of-the-books-we-love/

28/05/2024

Step into the vibrant world of André Trantraal, where words and illustrations intertwine. Join this multi-talented writer and illustrator for a workshop, that will guide you in crafting your personal biography through the medium of comics. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the art of visual storytelling and bring your own journey vividly to life on the page.

Life Lines
Thursday 6 June, 1pm - 4pm

Book via Webtickets or click through from our website.
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/life-lines/

28/05/2024

Open Book Festival is more than just a series of panels and workshops. It's a platform for diverse voices to be heard, for critical dialogues to take place, and for people from all walks of life to gather and celebrate each other and themselves. It is made possible by the support of passionate people and organisations, and this is your opportunity to get involved.

As a sponsor, you'll have the opportunity to align your brand with an event that promotes inclusivity, empowerment, and the exchange of ideas. By partnering with Open Book Festival, you'll not only gain valuable exposure to our engaged audience but also demonstrate your commitment to fostering a more inclusive, thought-provoking, and culturally enriching community.

We have various sponsorship levels available, each offering unique benefits and recognition opportunities. Let's discuss how we can craft a tailored package that aligns with your goals and values. Get in touch with [email protected] for details.

25/05/2024

The Power of Public Storytelling & Unruly

Empatheatre Explores a Decade of Sculpting Empathy 🎭

Join Empatheatre co-founders Neil Coppen & Dylan McGarry as they reflect on 10 years of award-winning work championing innovative public storytelling processes across South Africa & beyond.

They'll share principles, practices & methodologies including co-design, ethical representation, political acupuncture, theatre-based research & their iterative "call and response" approach.

The workshop will also launch the published text of their acclaimed play 'Isidlamlilo' & discuss the making of their latest work 'Unruly'.

The workshop is followed by a performance of 'Unruly' starring Andrew Buckland.
Empatheatre's latest production, 'Unruly', is an extension of the Unruly Natures Project exploring complex baboon/human relationships across the Cape Peninsula.

Starring Andrew Buckland, this insightful play will spark reflection on neighbourhood baboon encounters, and will be followed by a Q&A session.

Workshop: 10:00 - 12:00
Screening: 13:00 - 14:40

https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/the-power-of-public-storytelling-an-empatheatre-workshop/
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/the-power-of-public-storytelling-an-empatheatre-workshop/

23/05/2024

Visually Craft Your Story at Our Biographical Comic Workshop 📚✏️

Join award-winning writer, illustrator and translator André Transtraal for an immersive session on visual storytelling through the compelling medium of comics.

Please note: This is not an illustration workshop, but instead focuses specifically on narrative techniques for creating biographical comics.

Some illustration experience is a plus, but all are welcome to explore turning real-life stories into vivid sequential art.

Limited spaces available, so book through Webtickets or our website today!
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/life-lines/

22/05/2024

Writing Joy: A Praxis of Gratitude

In these turbulent times, allowing ourselves to feel joy can be an act of defiance. Join poet Vuyokazi Ngemntu for a rejuvenating workshop where we'll explore tools to access profound moments of delight, contentment and elation through writing.

Drawing from cherished memories, relationships and the wonders around us, we'll lay down our burdens and unmask our pain. Together, we'll celebrate life's gifts through poetry, prose and joyful expression - tapping into the innate bliss within each of us.

Reclaim your radical joy at this thought-provoking, restorative afternoon of creativity and community. Because finding light is an act of resistance.

Tickets available through webtickets or our website here:
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/writing-joy-a-praxis-of-gratitude/

Regain your sense of wonder and join the resistance through joy!

20/05/2024

Writers, it's time to craft entire universes with your words!
Join us for an immersive workshop where we'll explore the boundless realms of story worlds. From cosmic landscapes to emotional ecosystems, we'll imagine and re-imagine together.

Whether your tales unfold in a mysterious forest, a gritty urban setting, or the farthest reaches of the galaxy, this workshop will help strengthen the foundations of your narrative worlds.

Here's what you can expect:

Exercises to develop rich belief systems and narratives
Techniques for creating deeply rooted settings
Methods to breathe life into complex characters
Collaborative worldbuilding to spark new creative ideas
No matter your preferred medium - prose, screenwriting, poetry, or beyond - this workshop will empower you to craft living, breathing story worlds that captivate readers.

Limited space available. Book via Webtickets or through our website to to embark on this worldbuilding adventure!
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/worlds-out-of-words-with-kelly-eve-koopman/

19/05/2024

Don't miss this illuminating workshop led by the brilliant Samantha Waligo and Helené Coetzee!

Whether you're an aspiring or published author, this session will equip you with invaluable knowledge and practical strategies to effectively market your books in the South African literary landscape.

Here's what you can expect:

An inside look at the SA publishing scene
Exploration of traditional and digital marketing avenues
Creative exercises to brainstorm innovative promo ideas
Interactive format to apply what you learn in real-time
Plus, published authors are welcome to bring their books for personalized marketing feedback!

This is a can't-miss opportunity to gain a competitive edge and c***ect with your readers like never before.

Spaces are limited, so don't wait! Book via Webtickets or through our website to reserve your spot for this game-changing book marketing workshop now.
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/marketing-your-book/

19/05/2024

Join acclaimed writer and editor, Bongani Kona for a workshop designed to equip you to find words that can hold trauma.

In this session, you'll delve into a series of writing exercises and shared readings designed to help you find language for life's most unbearable experiences.

Whether you're grappling with personal trauma, cultural wounds, or the collective grief of our times, this workshop will provide a supportive space to explore these heavy themes through your writing.

Spaces are limited. Book through Webtickets or our website to reserve your spot in this transformative writing experience.
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/writing-trauma-2/

16/05/2024

Are you ready to transform your personal experiences into powerful poetry that sparks change?

Join Kirsten Deane and Melissa Sussens of The Red Wheelbarrow Poetry Collective for an immersive "Autoethnographic Poetry" workshop.

In this unique session, you'll learn to blend autobiography and ethnography, using your individual story as a lens to explore broader societal issues.

Here's what you can expect:

✍️ Choose a personal experience that touches on a meaningful topic

✍️ Guided exercises to shape your narrative into evocative poetry

✍️ Discover how to link your words to wider communities and advocacy

Writers of all levels are welcome. Book via Webtickets or through our website:
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/society-through-a-poetic-lens/

Let's wield words as catalysts for understanding and progress.

14/05/2024

Calling all flash fiction writers and aspiring authors!

Are you ready to take your flash pieces to the next level and see them in print? Don't miss this incredible two-part workshop series with Karina Szczurek, renowned author, editor and founder of Karavan Press.

In the first session on June 3, you'll dive into the art of flash fiction writing. Discover what defines this concise form, explore writing exercises and prompts to spark your creativity, and receive a homework assignment to craft your own flash piece.

Then, on June 8, it's time to polish your work! You'll break into groups to read, edit, and prepare your flashes for publication in a printed pamphlet you can treasure forever.

But that's not all – by attending both sessions, you'll walk away with:
A deeper understanding of flash fiction
Writing exercises to continue honing your skills
Feedback from peers and the workshop leader
A printed pamphlet featuring your work!

Spaces are limited, so don't delay! Book your tickets via Webtickets or through our website, here: https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/flash-workshop-with-karavan-press-session-1/

14/05/2024

The Art of Reading
6 June, 10am - 12pm, Bertha House

Get the most out of the books you love by joining renowned author and literary enthusiast Alistair Mackay for a workshop focused on the Art of Reading! 📚✨

This interactive session will delve into techniques that will elevate your reading experience, allowing you to forge deeper c***ections with the written word.

Alistair's infectious passion for literature and keen insights promise to ignite your love for reading, whether you're a bookworm or someone seeking to c***ect with a reading community,

Limited seats available! Book your tickets via Webtickets or through our website here: https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/the-art-of-reading-getting-the-most-out-of-the-books-we-love/

13/05/2024

listening to the land
3 June, 10am - 4pm, Bertha House

Rec***ect with yourself and your heritage through this transformative workshop led by the talented Toni Giselle Stuart! 🌺✏️

Toni is an acclaimed poet, performer, and creative writing facilitator. Her work is about listening for the stories that help us reclaim our ancestral gifts and wisdom so we can remember who and what we truly are. She was also the founding curator of Poetica, at Open Book Festival.

Discover the magic of words as Toni guides you through creative writing exercises, poetry techniques, and finding inspiration in the world around you. Whether you're a seasoned poet or a newcomer to the craft, this interactive session promises to ignite your passion for poetry.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today! Book your tickets via Webtickets or through our website here: https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/listening-to-the-land/

***ection

10/05/2024

Aspiring screenwriters, take your stories from page to screen with our upcoming workshop led by Jenna Cato Bass!

Jenna is the accomplished filmmaker and writer behind acclaimed films like "Flatland" (Berlinale, 2019) and "Mlungu Wam" ("Good Madam") (Toronto Film Festival 2021)." Her work was hailed by OkayAfrica as "often provocative, always thought-provoking." Jenna is also a co-founder and facilitator at Free Film School, an alternative film and arts training initiative in Cape Town.

Jenna will guide you through the fundamental elements of screenwriting. The interactive session will cover story, character, world and the development process. A notebook and pen are required - come prepared to write!

Book via webtickets before spots fill up.
Our website is linked here: https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/screenwriting-with-jenna-cato-bass/
Start bringing your vision to life on the big screen.

07/05/2024

Join us for "Writing Life" - a transformative memoir writing workshop led by Dawn Garisch. On 5 June from 10am - 4pm at Bertha House, Dawn will guide you through the craft of shaping personal experiences into compelling narratives.

Dawn is the founder of the Life Righting Collective, helping people tap into their authentic voices through writing. Her latest book, a collection of short stories entitled "What Remains", was hailed as "a journey into the oddities of the human heart with a sharp eye and an edge of dark humour" and won the prestigious HSS Award.

Whether you're just starting to mine your memories or are polishing a work-in-progress, this workshop will provide expert feedback in a supportive community setting. Discover the keys to vividly evoking people, places and events on the page. All levels welcome!

Spaces are limited, so book via webtickets today. The webtickets link is available on our website here:
https://openbookfestival.co.za/programme/writing-life/

Let Dawn help you unearth the extraordinary stories awaiting in your ordinary life.

03/05/2024

Calling all book lovers and creative minds!
Get ready to unleash your literary talents at our upcoming Workshop Week, a celebration of the written word. From 3 - 8 June, we'll be at Bertha House to delve into the worlds of writing fiction, poetry, screenwriting and more. See the programme here:
https://openbookfestival.co.za/festival-programme/

Join us for engaging sessions led by renowned authors, poets, and industry experts. Whether you're a seasoned writer or a passionate beginner, this is your chance to hone your skills, explore new genres, and c***ect with a vibrant community of literary enthusiasts.

Spaces are limited, so mark your calendars and book your tickets through Webtickets. Let the words flow and the inspiration soar! 📝✨

19/03/2024

The Red Wheelbarrow Poetry Collective workshop and Open Mic at Bertha House.

We had a spectacular turnout to our two day poetry workshop and open mic! These are just a few snapshots of the festivities.

18/03/2024

Scenes from day 1

We had a spectacular start to Youth Fest, and we still have more to share!

03/03/2024

Nikiwe’s Magical Glass Doors

Join Refilwe Nsibande for a storytime and activity session.

Book tickets: [email protected]

01/03/2024

Play your part in helping the next generation discover a love for all things literature!

One of our initiatives this year is to ensure that books and skills reach individuals who may otherwise miss out on the transformative power and joy that the world of stories offers.

To achieve this, we will be purchasing books by all participating writers for donation purposes. We invite anyone who is interested in contributing to this initiative to reach out to us via email: [email protected]

Images are from YouthFest 2023