The complete program of the International Children’s and Young Adult Literature section of the 22nd international literature festival berlin with all readings is now on sale.
The section presents international picture books, narrative children’s books and novels for young people as well as comics and non-fiction books as world premieres, international premieres, German premieres or Berlin premieres. This year, seventeen authors from around the world are expected to participate in over fifty events, including Laura Carlin, Bernardine Evaristo, and Sam Thompson.
»I am delighted that after a four-year break we are finally back at the Haus der Berliner Festspiele, where we can offer a great forum for remarkable international children’s literature.« – Christoph Rieger, Head of Program International Children’s and Young Adult Literature
As in previous years, the section’s program is characterized above all by its bold and unusual positions. Literarily and visually remarkable works negotiate challenging and highly relevant themes such as self-empowerment, diversity, and confronting an uncertain future. The program brings books to Berlin that take young people and their concerns seriously, and in doing so follow narrative paths that are characterized by ambition and a willingness to take risks – thus making an important contribution to the children’s book market.
This year’s program includes the Opening Speech by Angeline Boulley and the reading of Kristina Sigunsdotter’s »Humlan Hanssons hemligheter« with a ballet presentation by students of the Staatliche Ballett- und Artistikschule Berlin. Readings of »Herr Schnuffels« and »Strandgut« by David Wiesner, the doyen of the U.S. picture book, will be interpreted musically by Berlin drummer Noelia Sánchez. And while Hana Tookes’ »The Unadoptables« is accompanied by a suitcase puppet theater, Tàssies, one of Spain’s most aesthetically radical picture book makers, comes to Berlin to illustrate his book »Noms robats« live.
The section’s program – consisting of readings, Q&As, workshops, and other mediation formats – will take place at the Haus der Berliner Festspiele and at selected other venues. All information about the program as well as the current presale can be found on the ticket page of the festival. General information about the section can be found here.