Otherworld, a local organisation focused on the celebration of science fiction and fantasy, will host a literary event on Saturday 25 July at Exclusive Books Waterfront, Cape Town this year.

Attendees can expect in-depth conversations exploring the ins and outs of what makes fantasy fiction so alluring. Aspiring authors will also have the opportunity to learn from both traditionally published and self-published authors as well as the opportunity to connect with booksellers and other publishing experts, organisers say.

“We’ve been so delighted by the response to this event,” says Tanya Meeson, former Bellville resident, creator of Otherworld and author of The Witch of Benbar’s Cross. “The spec-fic (speculative fiction) community is strong in the Western Cape and this is one way we hope to make it a little stronger.”

Bookings are made via the Exclusive Books Events webpage. There is no cost involved.

“I am delighted to be hosting Otherworld again. For years we have been told that there was little desire for a local brew of speculative fiction. However, South Africans are finally picking up their pens and committing their creativity to paper and Otherworld has shone a light on the real demand for it and the desire people have to support local,” says Alan Commaille, manager at Exclusive Books Waterfront.

First of its kind

Otherworld is the first of its kind in Cape Town. The organisation spotlights local science fiction and fantasy authors, such as internationally recognised Kerstin Hall, Locus and Nebula shortlist and Sam Wilson, Safta award-winner and best-selling author of Zodiac and First Murder on Mars. The event celebrates a love for everything otherworldly from epic fantasies and romantasies to space operas and the supernatural.

“Fantasy and sci-fi readers are eager to find spaces with likeminded people where their favourite books are celebrated,” says Shameez Patel, Goodwood resident, creator of Otherworld and author of The Last Feather. “Otherworld does exactly that.”

Based on the success of the three panels hosted in 2024, a fourth panel was added in 2025. All sessions boasted a full house. This year will continue with four diverse panels on all things speculative fiction and publishing. Attendees can expect the likes of Tanya Meeson, Catriona Ross, Nerine Dorman, Shameez Patel, Megan Shunmugam, Lebo Matseke, Anne Schlebusch, Justin Fillmore, Sam Wilson, Jon Keevy, Rushdiyah Narker, Ciaran Maidwell, Libby Young, Marius du Plessis, Jen Thorpe, Alan Commaille, Anoshi Saretzki, Masha du Toit, Shreya La Cock and Zayaan Schroeder.

For more information e-mail shameez@shameezwrites.co.za.

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