Preliminary South African Book Fair programme

The preliminary programme offers children's programmes, guide to self-publishing, Afrikaans literature and debates. The final programme will be released in May.

This year's fair has over 120 events under one roof and over 100 authors, illustrators, storytellers, book critics, puppet shows, book launches and book club brunches on offer.

Children's line up

Children will fall in love with the world of books with the exciting programme schedule. The little ones can meet and have their photos taken with the Gruffalo, Maisy, Peter Rabbit and Spot the dog. Visiting tweens will have the opportunity to meet Wally from 'Where's Wally' and join in a book illustration workshop.

Feast of speakers

Visitors can look forward to a range of speakers, panellists and academics, who will debate and discuss a number of topics from 'the future of the book' to 'the route to self publishing'. Amongst the list of speakers are Judge Edwin Cameron, analyst Prince Mashele, Dr Xolela Mangcu and sports analyst Marco Botha.

Fans of bestselling author Susan Lewis can embark on a three-day soiree, during which she will chat about life, love and everything in between over brunch.

South Africa's vibrant Afrikaans literary world

Afrikaans literature fans will get to rub shoulders with authors Chanette Paul, Deon Meyer and Steve Hofmeyer.

Debaters and current affairs curators speak their minds

Pertinent debates around issues that we as South Africans face today are also included in the line-up. Join the discussion around the future of the book and e-learning in the South African schooling system.

Tickets for the fair will be on sale at the door at R50 and R20 for pensioners. Children under the age of 18 receive free entry. For more information, go to www.southafricanbookfair.co.za, call Belinda Unterslak on +27 (0) 11 549 8300 or email az.oc.deeRebehT@adnileb.