BE THERE! South Africa’s largest children’s book fair is coming to Joburg
Calling all Gauteng-based booklovers! If you’re on the hunt for some family-friendly entertainment this weekend, make a bee-line for the Bennies Book Fayre this Saturday, 14 March.
Brought to you by the Schools Reading Road Show and St Benedict’s Preparatory School, the Bennies Book Fayre will showcase 50 South African kidlit and YA authors who have published books in a variety of local languages.
The fair, which will be the largest gathering of its kind in South Africa, aims to showcase the country’s incredible local talent (hence the theme, ‘Home Grown’), giving members of the public a chance to rub shoulders with some local authors and perhaps get a signed copy of their new favourite book.
The authors being showcased on the day will also include some child authors – as young as nine years old – proving that you’re never too young (or too old!) to nurture a love for language, books and reading.
What can you expect on the day?
In addition to meeting some local children’s book authors, those who visit the Bennies Book Fayre this Saturday can enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities. There will be live readings by some of the featured authors in the Reading Corner, as well as a character dress-up competition, where children are encouraged to dress up as their favourite storybook character.
Prizes are up for grabs throughout the day so don’t hesitate to join in the fun!
Visitors off all ages can also look forward to featured panel discussions, where some local authors will partake in in-depth discussions about everything kidlit-related – from chats about baby books to discussions with published child authors. Young attendees can also head to the activity area for some kid-centred fun.
The Schools Reading Road Show mission
The Schools Reading Road Show has one primary objective for 2020 – to take authors into local schools so they can interact with young learners and encourage them to read more.
“Research has shown how important it is for younger children to read physical books, as it holds their concentration, improves their motor skills and encourages interaction,” says local author and SRRS founder Jann Weeratunga.
With this in mind, all proceeds from the Bennies Book Fayre will go towards the SRRS mission.
Are you specially abled?
Gates will open 30 minutes earlier (at 09h30) for youngsters who may find it tough to navigate the crowds. So don’t be shy! There’s no reason for anyone not to join in the festivities.
See you there!
For more information on the Bennies Book Fayre, contact:
