The Open Book Festival will host its annual Youth Festival from Monday, March 16 to Monday, March 23, offering a week of free literary events designed to inspire a love of reading among children and teens.
The programme includes storytime sessions, author Q&As and interactive workshops aimed at encouraging creativity, discussion and community engagement through books.
Events will take place at schools, libraries, and community venues across the city, with some sessions reserved for partner schools and others open to the public.
This year’s programme also introduces exciting new faces, including Upile uThixo Bongco, Monique Fallows, Zingisa Mase, Rushdiyah Narker, and Martinus van Tee, among others.
Joining them are returning creatives: Zizipho Bam, ClimateLounge (Sarah Robyn Farrell and Dela Gwala), Kirsten Deane, Bianca Flanders, Siphokazi Jonas, and Carol Titus.
Although entry is free, booking is essential.
Festival curator Frankie Murrey said the Youth Festival sets the tone for the organisation’s annual calendar by creating opportunities for young readers to connect with stories and storytellers.
The Youth Festival forms part of the broader Open Book season, which also includes a workshop week in June and the main festival in September.
For programmes and bookings, visit openbookfestival.co.za or follow its social media platforms for updates.