The Franschhoek Literary Festival takes place this weekend, offering a plethora of literary delights for book lovers.
Imagine streets buzzing with book lovers creating a vibrant ambience as they move between a variety of village venues – all within walking distance of each other.
The Franschhoek Literary Festival runs annually on the third weekend in May, starting today and ending on Sunday.
It provides a platform for open and progressive discourse, with participation from renowned local and international authors and thought leaders. Informal discussions are the hallmark of the festival, with spirited debates on a variety of topical issues. Not forgetting the lighter, inspirational and fun sessions guaranteed to stimulate the senses.
A storytelling festival, business breakfast, live performances, documentaries and writing workshops complete the vibrant offerings of the festival.
Among some of the many highlights:
Friday, May 17
Screen Grab: Irish romance sensation Cecelia Ahern (PS, I Love You) and SA crime pioneer Angela Makholwa – whose Red Ink is out on Showmax – swop notes on the art of crafting a screen adaptation.
Saturday, May 18
In the Thirst Person: Having good sex is apparently easier than writing good sex scenes. But that's not rocket science, surely? Letlhogonolo Mokgoroane juggles the ins and outs of highend lit smut with Busisekile Khumalo (Sunshine and Shadows), Joy Watson (The Other Me) and Kobby Ben Ben (No One Dies Yet).
Sunday, May 19
How to Grip Your Reader: Join Danielle Weakley as she learns about the narrative tricks that make a book unputdownable from Femi Kayode (Gaslight), Fiona Snyckers (The Hidden) and Nick Mulgrew (Tunnel).
The End of an Ego-System: Don Pinnock talks to Adam Welz (The End of Eden) and Sandra Swart (The Lion's Historian: Africa's Animal Past) about the animal–human relationships that have profoundly shaped our history.
All the books featured on the 2024 programme will be on sale at the festival through Exclusive Books; and are also available at the FLF Exclusive Books Online Store.
In addition to a stellar line-up of authors and panel discussions, this year's festival offers to showcase the hidden gems and unique experiences that make Franschhoek a "must-visit" destination. Here are a few things to do during the festival weekend (or should you decide to extend your stay):
Franschhoek Wine Tram adventure: Explore the picturesque vineyards and wineries of Franschhoek aboard the iconic Wine Tram.
Artisanal chocolate tasting: Delight your taste buds with a decadent chocolate tasting experience at one of Franschhoek's renowned chocolatiers.
Vintage shopping spree: Take time to browse through Franschhoek's charming boutiques and antique shops.
Days and times: 9am to 8.30pm Friday; 10am to 6.30pm Saturday; and 10am to 6pm Sunday.
* To find out more go to www. flf.co.za or /www.flf.co.za/2024-programme/
