Cape Argus

Don’t miss the Franschhoe­k Literary Fest

- | ORIELLE BERRY

THE Franschhoe­k Literary Festival takes place next weekend, offering a plethora of literary delights for book lovers.

The festival runs annually on the third weekend in May, starting on Friday and ending on Sunday.

It provides a platform for open and progressiv­e discourse, with participat­ion from renowned local and internatio­nal authors and thought leaders. Informal discussion­s are the hallmark of the festival, with spirited debates on a variety of topical issues. Not forgetting the lighter, inspiratio­nal and fun sessions guaranteed to stimulate the senses.

A storytelli­ng festival, business breakfast, live performanc­es, documentar­ies and writing workshops complete the vibrant offerings of the Franschhoe­k Literary Festival.

While some sessions have sold out, there is still some time to plan to attend sessions and book available seats. Among some of the many highlights:

Friday, May 17

Screen Grab: Irish romance sensation Cecelia Ahern (PS, I Love You) and SA crime pioneer Angela Makholwa – whose Red Ink is out on Showmax – swop notes on the art of crafting a screen adaptation.

Saturday, May 18

In the Thirst Person: Having good sex is apparently easier than writing good sex scenes. But that’s not rocket science, surely? Letlhogono­lo Mokgoroane juggles the ins and outs of highend lit smut with Busisekile Khumalo (Sunshine and Shadows), Joy Watson (The Other Me) and Kobby Ben Ben (No One Dies Yet).

Sunday, May 19

How to Grip Your Reader: Join Danielle Weakley as she learns about the narrative tricks that make a book unputdowna­ble from Femi Kayode (Gaslight), Fiona Snyckers (The Hidden) and Nick Mulgrew (Tunnel).

The End of an Ego-System: Don Pinnock talks to Adam Welz (The End of Eden) and Sandra Swart (The Lion’s Historian: Africa’s Animal Past) about the animal-human relationsh­ips that have profoundly shaped our history.

All the books featured on the 2024 programme will be on sale at the Festival through Exclusive Books; and are also available at the FLF Exclusive Books Online Store.

In addition to a stellar line-up of authors and panel discussion­s, this year’s festival offers a showcase of the hidden gems and unique experience­s that make Franschhoe­k a “must-visit” destinatio­n. Here are a few things to do:

Franschhoe­k Wine Tram adventure: Explore the picturesqu­e vineyards and wineries of Franschhoe­k aboard the iconic Wine Tram.

Artisanal chocolate tasting Delight your taste buds with a at one of Franschhoe­k’s renowned chocolatie­rs.

Vintage shopping Franschhoe­k’s charming boutiques and antique shops for one-of-a-kind treasures and other satisfying finds. Discover vintage clothing, home décor and collectibl­es reflecting the town’s rich heritage.

Days and times: 9am to 8.30pm Friday; 10am to 6.30pm Saturday; and 10am to 6pm Sunday.

* To find out more, go to www.flf.co.za or /www.flf.co.za/2024-programme/

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