While visitors were out touring the beautiful Camellia garden in one corner of the Vergelegen Estate on Saturday (12 August), bibliophiles were gathered around a cosy fireplace for chats with Graham Giles on “Self-publishing rare books: Irma Stern’s painted book covers and bookplates” at the Homestead and Historical Exhibition. The event formed part of the greater Fringe Fireside Chats book festival which took place in the Somerset West winelands from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 August. The festival was dedicated to independent, unaffiliated writers, and featured talks on how to become a successful Indie author, with speakers from the service industry for self-publishing as well as chats with self-published authors (“Book festival to delight,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 9 August). Photos: Jamey Gordon


Joining in the chats with Giles (right) was fellow member of the Bibliophile Society of Cape Town, Paul Mills who serves as chair.

Kim and Sheila Faure were among interested listeners who attended the talk.

Dr Liz Hugo and Vandana Singh enjoyed a steaming cuppa ahead of the talk.

Among guests were supportive family members of the enthusiastic speaker, Graham Giles. Pictured (back, from left) are Neve O’Connor, Karen O’Connor, Graham Giles, Emma Giles, Nicola Giles; (front) Sya Giles, Lynn Giles, Erin O’Connor and John Giles.

Friends Lize Kok and Umarie Reitsma.

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