Literature on the Rise, Bulgarian Book Association Deputy Chair Says

Bulgarian literature is experiencing a notable resurgence, according to Gergana Dimitrova, Deputy Chair of the Bulgarian Book Association, speaking to the Bulgarian News Agency on Monday. Dimitrova highlighted Bulgaria’s upcoming role as the guest of honour at the 22nd Thessaloniki International Book Fair, scheduled for May 7-10. She attributed the current momentum in Bulgarian literature to factors including the international success of author Georgi Gospodinov and the recognition received by Rene Karabash for the Booker Prize.

Furthermore, Dimitrova pointed to the establishment of the Sofia Literary Agency, run by Gergana Pancheva, which she credits with significantly improving connections between Bulgarian writers and foreign publishers. She emphasized that this growth stems not only from recent achievements but also from the diverse styles and unique characteristics present within Bulgarian literature, much of which remains underexplored abroad. At the Thessaloniki Book Fair, a wide array of Bulgarian authors and translators will participate.

Featured participants include children’s authors Kapka Kaneva and Zornitsa Hristova, alongside notable writers such as Rene Karabash, shortlisted for the International Booker Prize, Alexandar Sekulov, and others. Translators like Zdravka Mihaylova and Spiros Pappas will also be present. The Bulgarian delegation plans to showcase considerable diversity, including works new to Greek readers alongside familiar titles.

The theme for Bulgaria’s participation is “Literature Without Borders,” aiming to demonstrate the ease of literary exchange within the Balkans. Dimitrova stated that this forum will further facilitate the publication of Bulgarian authors in Greece, building on existing exchanges with Greek authors published in Bulgaria. The event will conclude with a concert featuring music by Pancho Wladigeroff, Nikos Skalkottas, and Camille Saint-Saens.

Topics: #bulgarian #literature #book