For the first time in the Book Fair’s 40 years, the theme will be Sápmi when the fair kicks off in Gothenburg on Thursday.
The cultural institution Tjállegoahte are guests of honor together with the Sámi writers’ associations Bágo and Sámi Girječálliid Searvi.
Tema Sápmi brings together around 200 writers, yogis, duoji practitioners, storytellers, publishers and academics. The idea is to highlight the diversity of Sami literature and give visitors a unique experience – and meet as Sami cultural practitioners.
– It is fantastic that we have gathered some of the most exciting Sami writers, artists and thinkers. Together, we provide a deeper understanding and spread the joy in what Sapmi carries, and show the perspectives and depth that we have, says Patricia Fjellgren, project manager for Tema Sápmi in a press release.
Several famous Sami authors on site
Among others, authors such as Ann-Helén Laestadius, Elin Anna Labba, Britta Marakatt-Labba, Carola Grahn, Tina Harnesk, Simon Issát Marainen, Mats Jonsson, Jörgen Stenberg and Sigbjørn Skåden will be on site during the four days that the fair is in progress.
Tema Sápmi also highlights the indigenous perspective in the international collaboration in seminars and talks.
– The Sápmi theme is really a gift to the visitors of the book fair. Never before has the rich Sami culture been presented in such a powerful way south of Jokkmokk. We will be able to see, hear, taste and feel the Sami storytelling tradition – from fiction and joik to hip hop, crafts and food, says Oskar Ekström, program director at the Book Fair.
SVT Sápmi will be on site throughout the fair and report both from the fair floor and seminars.