Literary Discussions and Book Signings Held at Istanbul Fair with Azerbaijani Writers
As reported earlier, the 41st Istanbul International Book Fair was opened on November 2, with Azerbaijan as the "honorary guest country" under the motto "Childhood is a Festival.
The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan organized a large stand for our country in the exhibition area.
A large delegation of well-known writers of Azerbaijan takes part in the exhibition.
Signing ceremonies, literary discussions, and business meetings of publishers from different countries are organized at the exhibition space and at the stand of Azerbaijan.
The first panel with Azerbaijani writers focused on the theme, "Writing in the Age of Social Media."
Writers Sahila Yaya, Ulujay Akif, and Ravan Javid took part in the discussion, which was moderated by essayist and literary critic Gismat Rustamov.
It was noted that technological innovations in today's world have accelerated human activities and behaviors, urging writers to choose compelling topics and adopt a captivating style.
The authors responded to the readers' questions, and a discussion took place on the raised suggestions.
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On the same day, a book signing event for Gunel Shamilgizi's "I May Be Giant, But" (stories) and Javid Zeynalli's "Geography Teacher's Jacket" (short stories) took place at the Azerbaijani booth.
Poet, researcher, and essayist Farid Huseyn provided information about both authors and their books. It was noted that the books were published in Turkey in 2020 by "Zengin Yayıncılık" with a print run of 5000 copies as part of the "Azerbaijani Book Youth Series" within the framework of the project "Introducing Azerbaijani Book to the World" (AKDT) initiated by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The Turkish translation was done by the famous poet and translator Yurtseven Shen.
The authors then signed copies of the books for the readers.
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Another panel discussion on children's literature was held on the same day.
The panel was moderated by writer Sahila Yaya and featured well-known children's authors Solmaz Amanova and Sevinj Nurugizi.
The authors emphasized the importance of children's literature and its crucial role in improving children's aesthetic tastes and worldview. It was emphasized that a greater interest in fiction among children helps to keep them away from harmful habits and negative information.
Afterwards, the authors answered questions, as the event progressed into a discussion.
