Boekenbeurs returns to Antwerp Expo

As the biggest book fair in the Low Countries (approximately 20,000 square metres), it will house 90 booths from a wide array of publishers and book shops, offering not just the best in contemporary works, both fiction and non, but also in technology: The E-Pavilion has expanded, offering the latest advancements in digital reading.

Besides indulging in some much needed autumnal retail therapy of the bookish variety, you can also catch a performance by local rock band Sir Yes Sir, attend a reading (or take your kid to one) or take part in an inspiring workshop. This year’s themes, which should surely get the conversations flowing, are sustainability, the Far East, the First World War, the brain and, last but not least, love and other inconveniences.

There will also be several events for youngsters, like the Young Adult Book Convention, attended by the internationally renowned American young adult author Lauren Kate (Fallen). More than 800 Flemish and international authors and illustrators will be joining the fun, and some will be interviewed, including South African crime writer Deon Meyer, British comedian and writer of satire Ruby Wax and British romance novelist (and socialite) Santa Montefiore. Other authors, like Flemish greats Tom Lanoye, Pieter Aspe and Dimitri Verhulst, will be there to sign books and simply make your acquaintance.

Last but certainly not least, there will also be an attempt to beat the Seattle Public Library’s book domino chain reaction. So don that autumn jacket and head over to Antwerp; your new fictional friend may be just a (train) ride away. 
31 October to 11 November │ Antwerp Expo