Ten years is worth celebrating. The Niort Book Festival opens its doors for a new edition, marking its decade, on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 September 2024. Like last year, “120 authors, national or local, and publishing houses will be present all weekend. All literary styles will be represented”says Michel Van de Wiele, president of the organizing association, Le Donjon des livres.
Among them, there are not one, but three guests of honor, who will set the tone for the event. Starting with Paul El Kharrat, made famous by the television show The 12 strokes of noonwho will come to present his book Crimes and mysteries of France (Harper Collins). He will take part in a round table, hosted by a member of the association. “Participants will be able to ask him questions about his career and his books.”
For all ages and tastes
Delphine Giraud, already present in 2023, will return to present her novel Where memories are revealed (Fleuve Éditions). Finally, Sandra Martineau will talk about her work Change the sky to see the stars better (XO Editions).
The goal is to make people want to read
Poems, thrillers or new romance, “There will be something for all ages and all tastes”confides Michel Van de Wiele, himself the author of 13 books, including four historical novels on the Hundred Years’ War. A space dedicated to children will welcome the youngest readers.
In addition to the books, several workshops will be offered during the weekend. For Saturday, “We will have a creative writing workshop led by Sarah Blaineau, public writer”explains Christel Van de Wiele, vice-president of the Donjon des livres.
The manga initiation, which has “worked very well last year”is back for this edition. Just like the dictation, not graded, organized on Sunday under the direction of Jocelyne Cathelineau: rewards are to be won for the first three.
Pokemon Cards
In addition, a Pokémon card exchange should satisfy Pikachu or Jigglypuff lovers. Painting enthusiasts will be able to appreciate and buy the paintings of the Niort animal painter Anonymac. A free raffle will award a prize on Saturday and another on Sunday.
2,400 visitors walked the aisles of the Salon in 2023. This year, “We must overcome them”say Michel and Christel Van de Wiele, whose objective is to “make you want to read”. “We work all year round for this festival, hoping to attract the public”confides the vice-president of the Donjon des livres. And celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Book Festival as it should be.
Saturday, September 21, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, September 22, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Halle des Peupliers, at the Noron exhibition center, in Niort. Free admission.
