Literati Parties

Upcoming bookish events that tickle my fancy and might tickle yours too.

‘Tis me again. Now that Bloodbird is has flown the coop, albeit temporarily, I have some time on my hands.

The Franschhoek Literary Festival is running from 15 – 17 May. Are you going? I’m certainly thinking about it. I’m keen for some schmoozing with members of the bookish community. I would love to see Bonnie Espie again, who I met during the 2024 launch of the first edition of In Other Stories, published by Karavan Press. We sat next to each other in the front row. I clearly remember when she leaned in to share that she had a book coming out with Kwela in 2025. During this time my full MS had been requested by Mirari Press and I was patiently waiting for better days. At hearing her good news I remember thinking, that’s going to be me one day too. And here we are. Manifesting is real, y’all.

I’m also super excited to see the Mirari Press team in action. Paige Nick will be there. I find her enthusiasm for the business of writing inspiring and eager to devour whatever she’ll be serving. Honestly, I just think she’s so cool. I also really hope to see the talented and intriguing Sven Axelrad. Don’t be shy if you spot me. Depending on the phase of the Moon, I’m usually quite approachable.

Another event on my radar is The Elgin Poetry Festival which will be taking place on 24 – 26 July. Together with Cheverells Farm and Liberty Books, Karavan Press is organizing this poetry fest in the beautiful town of Elgin, practically in my backyard. Let me know if you’re going.

And then there’s something really cool happening in early June. Mirari Press will be celebrating their second birthday. Mirari is Gemini. Not me rolling my eyes at not being surprised at all. Let me tell you something, dear reader, I can vouch for the Aquarius+Gemini equation through lived experience. It’s a real thing. But I digress. The makietie will take place in Cape Town. I’ll be wearing my party earnings for this one. Watch this space for more details.

Know if any events I could add to my calendar? Please do share.

Til next time.

Erica