Discover the Magic of Words This Week at The Malta Book Festival
Are you a book lover? Do you revel in the thrill of a well-crafted story, the allure of beautifully illustrated pages, or the enchantment of a live theatre performance? If you’re nodding your head with excitement, then the Malta Book Festival is just the place for you! The largest cultural event dedicated to books and reading in Malta is back, and it’s set to be bigger and better than ever.
Get ready for a literary adventure from 18 to 22 October at the MFCC, Ta’ Qali.
Beyond Books
This year’s festival carries the captivating theme of #beyondbooks, focusing on how literature can transcend the written word and manifest itself in various media. Imagine a world where the magic of books comes alive through illustration, audio, theatre, and film adaptation. With approximately 100 events spread over five thrilling days, the festival promises a world of literary wonder, and the best part? It’s all free!
Meet the Life-Blood of the Festival: The Exhibitors
A festival wouldn’t be complete without the heartbeat of it all—the exhibitors. This year, around 50 exhibitors range from established publishers to fresh, exciting newcomers. They fill the festival halls with an irresistible array of reading material and offer book signings and other engaging activities. You can find the complete list of exhibitors online, so be sure to say hello to your favourites!
A feast for families and children
The Malta Book Festival has always been committed to its educational mission; this year is no exception. It welcomes school visits during weekday mornings, offering young pupils live shows, book-browsing sessions, and a €5 discount voucher for book purchases. The festival also provides an autism-friendly space called Il-Kamra Sensorja, designed for children on the spectrum to enjoy storytelling activities in a safe and inclusive environment.
International Guests and Masterclasses: Learn from the Best
The festival is not just about celebrating books; it’s also about nurturing new talent. This year, best-selling Irish crime writer Sam Blake and her agent, Simon Trewin, will be present to inspire and guide aspiring authors through free workshops and masterclass sessions.
Charlie Castelletti, a UK children’s books editor with Maltese heritage, will deliver a masterclass on writing for children and young readers. Meanwhile, Praspar Press, focused on publishing contemporary Maltese writing in English, will share insights on editing. And for those curious about the book production process, Gutenberg Press will host an informative seminar, ‘How a Book is Made’.
Sam Blake
Spectacular Shows that Go #BeyondBooks
The festival offers spectacular events that will take you beyond the pages. ‘VII/Fidwa’, a musical-theatre medley performance led by The New Victorians, explores pivotal moments in Maltese history through music and drama. There’s also a roundtable discussion with renowned writers and a playful performance by Ateliersi that hinges on wordplay and audience interaction.
the visual world of books comes alive
The visual aspect of literature takes centre stage with exhibitions like ‘Il-Malti: Il-Mixja Sal-Għarfien Uffiċjali’, showcasing the history of the Maltese language. The ‘From Illustration to Book’ exhibition allows visitors to witness the evolution of Maltese book illustration. And don’t miss the Interactive Mural, where four artists will create a mural in live drawing sessions.
Commemorating Literary Greats and Rising Stars
The festival is the perfect platform to honour literary figures, both past and present. This year, the National Book Council will pay tribute to historian Henry Frendo with a new documentary. Plus, there’s a panel discussion on an upcoming adaptation of Clare Azzopardi’s novel ‘Castillo’, including a trailer debut. And, as a tradition, the festival hosts the prize-giving ceremony for the Doreen Micallef National Poetry Contest.
Getting there and opening hours
The festival is easily accessible, with ample parking space at the MFCC north entrance and enhanced bus routes offered by Malta Public Transport. The festival’s opening hours are as follows:
· Wednesday and Thursday: 9 am-1 pm and 5 pm-9 pm
· Friday: 9 am-1 pm and 5 pm-10 pm
· Saturday: 9:30 am-10 pm
· Sunday: 9:30 am-8 pm
Don't miss out
The 2023 Malta Book Festival is a literary extravaganza you don’t want to miss. It’s a celebration of books, a learning opportunity, a showcase of talent, and a feast for the senses. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of literature in all its forms. For the latest updates and the full festival program, visit the NBC website, the NBC Facebook page, and the Malta Book Festival 2023 Facebook page.
For more information visit the website here.
