Page 24 - Cornwall Issue 2_2024

BOOKS

FRANSCHHOEK
LITERARY

FESTIVAL

The Franschhoek Literary Festival (FLF) is an
annual cultural highlight, providing a platform for
open and progressive discourse, with participation
from local and international authors and thought
leaders. This year’s event takes place from 17-19
May.

Informal discussions are the hallmark of the
festival, with debates on a variety of topical
issues. There will also be business breakfasts,
live performances, film screenings and writing
workshops. For literature enthusiasts, it promises a
celebration of words, ideas and culture.
Building on the success of past events, the 2024
festival will feature a line-up of local, pan-African
and international authors.

This year’s gathering is again expected to attract
book lovers and thinkers from around the world,
providing a platform for the exchange of ideas and
exploration of South Africa’s rich literary landscape.
There will be interactive workshops and thought-
provoking panel discussions. Jennifer Ball, the
festival’s programme director, says they will provide
a platform where “diverse voices converge to
inspire, challenge and engage.”

With a commitment to advancing the culture of
reading, the festival’s non-profit mandate includes
initiatives to support disadvantaged communities in
the Franschhoek Valley by funding books, employing
library facilitators and nurturing a love of reading
among learners. Regular weekly library lessons
across 65 classes were established and the FLF
has donated R1.7 million in books and library
materials. It continues to positively influence the
reading experience of at least 3000 learners each
year.

For festival updates, author announcements, ticket
details and the complete 2024 programme, visit
the website and follow the festival’s social media
platforms.
www.flf.co.za

22 Cornwall View • Issue 2 2024