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ISAR Ednannia
This is an exciting speed-dating-style activity. Participants will rotate between tables, presenting their favorite books and answering themed questions. Everyone will have the chance to share how a book impressed them and inspire others to add it to their reading lists. It’s an opportunity to discover new ideas, meet fascinating conversation partners, and find literary inspiration!
In partnership with International Renaissance Foundation
During an open conversation with Andriy Kurkov, we will discuss how art becomes an island of strength and hope in challenging times, why cultural diplomacy is a crucial tool for amplifying Ukraine’s voice on the global stage, and how book clubs in Ukraine are transforming into spaces for unity, critical thinking, and mutual support. This conversation is about us — how each of us can find inspiration and support in culture. The interview with Andriy Kurkov will be conducted by Inna Pidluska, Deputy Director of the International Renaissance Foundation.
In partnership with International Renaissance Foundation
In Ukraine, there is a growing interest in culture, particularly literature. In contrast, Europe and the United States are witnessing a decline in the popularity of reading, especially printed books. With the rise of digital entertainment, social media, and video content, books are losing their status as a primary leisure activity. In Ukraine, however, studies, including those by the Ukrainian Book Institute, show a steady increase in reading habits among citizens.
This public discussion seeks to explore the factors behind these trends and their implications for civil society in Ukraine. Experts, researchers, and intellectuals will examine how this cultural phenomenon strengthens resilience and defense in challenging times, while addressing the opportunities and challenges it presents for the future.
Speakers:
– Oleksandra Koval, Director of the Ukrainian Book Institute
– Vitaliy Portnykov, Publicist, Writer, Journalist, Laureate of the Shevchenko Prize, Member of PEN Ukraine
– Kateryna Kalytko, Poet, Translator, Laureate of the Shevchenko Prize, Member of PEN Ukraine
– Oleksii Erinchak, Entrepreneur, IT Specialist, Founder and Owner of “Sens” Bookstores in Kyiv
– Sofiia Cheliak, Journalist at Frontliner, Member of PEN Ukraine, Program Director of the Lviv Book Forum, Advisor to the Mayor of Lviv on Publishing Affairs
Moderator:
Radoslava Kabachii
In partnership with Bilka Publishing House
This panel discussion will explore the critical role of literature in documenting war. Speakers will delve into how authors and researchers tackle the subject of war, overcoming emotional and ethical challenges. Participants will share insights into how literature helps society comprehend events, honor heroes, and preserve memories for future generations. In a time when the information front is as crucial as the military front, the discussion will underscore why silence is not an option and how words can serve as a powerful weapon in the fight for freedom and truth.
Speakers:
– Anton Semenov, Social Psychologist, Founder of the Volunteer Project “How Are You, Brother?”
– Marina Riabchenko, PhD in Philology, Literary Scholar, Researcher of War Literature
– Dmytro Vovnyanko, Writer, Blogger, and War Veteran
– Tamara Horikha-Zernia, Writer, Translator, Recipient of the 2022 Shevchenko Prize and the BBC Book of the Year Award 2019
