National Book Fair goes virtual amid outbreak

Books of all kinds from 223 publishers will be presented at the 49th “National Book Fair” and “Bangkok International Book Fair 2021”, which will be held virtually at ThaiBookFair.com from Saturday until April 25.

Organised by the Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand (Pubat), the physical event has been postponed to May 15-23 at Bitec Bangna and will feature 615 booths with strict Covid-19 preventive measures in place.

Next month’s fair will be divided into seven zones — Book Wonderland, General Books, Education, Children’s Books, Old Books, Foreign Books, and Novels.

This year’s event focuses on the theme arn teh, which roughly translates to “read and look smart”, to promote reading as a unique lifestyle as it brings up to 1,200 new titles, including the launch of The Princess’ Dog Diary 2 written by HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.

There will also be many exhibitions, seminars and on-stage activities. Visitors will also have a chance to hear stories by 49 “Read Idols” from various professions, including businessmen, writers, politicians, academics, doctors, scientists, artists and actors who reflect on how books have had a strong influence on their lives in the “I Read, Therefore, I Am”, exhibition. At “The Magic Of Fairy

Tales On Brain Development” exhibition, a selection of children’s books in five categories will be presented alongside fun activities.

Bookworms will also get inspired by a series of talks that will showcase motivational books in various genres.

Another interesting activity is “Happykids”, which aims to teach kids to understand their own bodies and minds. It will be conducted by Dr Win from Facebook: SpoiledPediatrician and Risuan Aramcharoen from Plan For Kids.

There will be 60% discounts on offer, and e-coupons worth 500 baht are available at only 400 baht from pubat.net. Kerry Express will also be there to offer delivery services.