The fifth edition of the November Book Month promises to be a rich period for anyone who loves stories, music, podcasts, graphic art, writing, or simply discovering something new. Activities will be held in libraries, bookstores, cultural centers, and museums across the city. Highlights include the horror festival SPOKEN at the Blikfabriek, the MAAK-days at bib Permeke, city walks based on the new novel by Max Greyson, and a lecture by forensic doctor and visual artist Babette Van Rafelghem.
Alderman for Culture Lien Van de Kelder emphasizes the importance of this month: "By bringing a major book festival back to Antwerp, we are crowning the November Book Month. With over 100 activities in every corner of the city, we celebrate and stimulate the joy of reading for young and old." She adds that Boektopia is accessible to everyone, with special attention to schools, youth associations, and reduced-price tickets for those with a Kansentarief. The growing visitor numbers at libraries also confirm their role as the 'living room of the Antwerp resident'.
Some of the key events include Crossing Border on November 8 at Arenberg, a literature festival featuring international authors such as Adania Shibli and Tom Lanoye. From November 10 to 15, Boektopia at Antwerp Expo will transform into a meeting place for readers, authors, booksellers, and publishers, with performances, interviews, and storytelling sessions. Vulnerable groups and children are also encouraged through school libraries and lowered accessibility thresholds.
Following Boektopia, the program continues with We zullen doorgaan (We Will Continue) on November 13 and 14 at De Studio, featuring debates on contemporary issues. From November 20 to 22, Graffix will take place at De Studio, a festival focused on illustration and visual storytelling. Afterwards, there's Boektopia on tour on November 21 and 22, offering literary encounters in bookstores and cafes. The month concludes on November 28 at Permeke library with the award ceremony for De Bronzen Uil (The Bronze Owl), the prize for the best Dutch-language debut novel, presented by VRT journalist Ann De Bie.
