CAPE TOWN – Simon’s Town will be abuzz with activity as it prepares to welcome some of South Africa’s most celebrated writers for the fourth edition of Books on the Bay Literary Festival, taking place on Friday 13 March and Sunday 15 March.
Building on the runaway success of previous years, this year’s festival features 28 diverse events showcasing over 30 South African and international writers, including major literary prize winners.
Stellar speaker lineup
This year’s programme includes Judges Edwin Cameron and Dennis Davis reflecting on Fyodor Dostoevsky’s classic novel, Crime and punishment, followed by Mooiplaas wine tastings. Anwar McKay will share his journey of healing and life with husband, comedian Marc Lottering, while Popina Khumanda discusses escaping rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Other highlights feature Michele Magwood on creating award-winning gardens, Pieter du Toit exposing Paul Mashatile’s rise to power, and Hlonipha Mokoena examining colonial representations of black men.
Serai Dowling and Veruska de Vita explore wild swimming in the Western Cape, while Pauli van Wyk presents her Julius Malema exposé.
Internationally renowned author prof Antjie Krog will discuss mortality and South Africa’s bittersweet histories, complemented by legendary musician Roger Lucey’s performance combining storytelling, memoir and song about building his mountain home.
Community and educational focus
The festival proudly maintains strong University of the Western Cape (UWC) connections, with all three organisers linked to UWC’s Faculty of Education.
A dedicated Children’s Literature Festival features writers residing in the Simon’s Town area, visiting local schools exclusively within the community.
Local restaurants and coffee shops are preparing special menus, while expanded tuk-tuk services will transport festival-goers between venues free of charge.
Strong support base
Major sponsors include Standard Bank, UWC, Simon’s Town Civic Association, The Hardy Boys, Jonathan Ball Publishers, Simonstown.com, and Mooiplaas Wine Estate.
For more information visit www.booksonthebay.co.za or email info@booksonthebay.co.za.
