Baghdad’s literary scene is buzzing with the opening of the 25th Baghdad International Book Fair. Running from September 12th to 22nd, 2024, under the theme “From Iraq, the first letter to the world was written,” the fair has attracted over 350 publishers from Iraq, the Arab world, and beyond. Dr. Abdul Wahab Al-Radhi, head of the organizing committee and Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized the importance of reading and the government’s dedication to supporting literary initiatives. He described the fair as a vital meeting point for authors and readers, contributing to Iraq’s vibrant literary landscape.
The 10-day event, with daily sessions from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offers a rich program of discussions and signings featuring prominent Arab authors, poets, and intellectuals. Among the distinguished guests are Jordanian novelist Dr. Ayman Al-Otooum, Egyptian actor Hany Ramzy, Lebanese media figure Tony Khalife, and Palestinian poet Dr. Tamim Al-Barghouthi.
For many Iraqis, like long-time attendee Ahmed Abu Khudhur, the fair is a beloved annual tradition. He describes it as a “paradise for all book lovers,” a place to explore new releases and satisfy intellectual curiosity.
The 25th edition reinforces the Baghdad Book Fair’s significance in the Arab literary world. It showcases works from Iraqi and other Arab publishers, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Arab literature in response to local and global influences. As Baghdad re-establishes itself as a cultural center, events like this fair are key to Iraq’s cultural revival, offering attendees the chance to engage with authors, discover new books, and immerse themselves in the world of literature.
