Cork World Book Fest to offer 40 events at venues across the city

Having begun in 2005 as a one-day festival, Cork World Book Fest return next month for its 21st year, offering 40 events with 100 writers over six days.

The festival runs from Tuesday to Sunday, April 22 to 27, in multiple venues across the city, and incorporates UNECSCO World Book Day.

This year’s One City One Book — Stone Mad by Seamus Murphy — will be launched at the festival to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of the Irish sculptor.

The opening night, which takes place at Cork City Library, will feature Christine Dwyer Hickey, Catriona Shine and Kevin Curran in conversation with Sean Rocks about ‘Who We Are, At Home and Abroad’.

Highlight

Patricia Looney, senior executive librarian in Cork City Libraries, said that the festival is one of the highlights of the year.

“Every April, we look forward to bringing Irish and international writers to Cork.

“We’re delighted to facilitate events free of charge or at a nominal fee, ensuring they are accessible to everyone.

“There will be discussions on how writers can increase their chances of submitting a successful manuscript as well as several events featuring work in translation, including a discussion moderated by Mary Noonan with award-winning author Catherine Prasifka and Laetitia Devaux who translates from English to French.”

Feedback

Events include the First Page Pitch event, where 10 writers get the opportunity to read the first page of their book to the room and get feedback, and Meet the Agents, as well as chats with popular writers.

The festival caters for all age groups with events for children and teens, including the Teen Graphic Novel launch, a comic book workshop, readings and an ISL event.

Events for this year’s festival will take place in the Cork City Library, Triskel Arts Centre, Cork Public Museum, the River Lee Hotel and Plugd Records and Café.

The Book Market will be back on Grand Parade on Saturday, April 26, organised by Goldiefish Events.