It was Soi Books' first time in Frankfurt, and I've got to say, it was a remarkable experience. All our doubts about potentially visiting vanished within a few moments of getting in and having a wander around. Unfortunately, we couldn't make it to any sessions due to a jam-packed schedule of meetings and non-stop networking but that’s a good thing really.
For those who might not be in the know, the Frankfurt Book Fair is a colossal trade event that brings together literary enthusiasts and creative minds from every corner of the globe. It's not just about authors and publishers; this fair is a bustling hub for anyone and everyone involved in the book business. I'm talking logistics, printers, operations, sales agents, rights specialists, and of course, publishers – you name it, they're there.
A Bittersweet Moment
Yet, amidst the jubilation and camaraderie, we couldn't ignore the shadow cast by a disappointing incident. The cancellation of the award ceremony for Palestine-born novelist and essayist, Adania Shibli was disheartening and seems to be a decision that defies the very essence of literature.
#IRL (In Real Life)
For our team, scattered across the globe as a remote crew, the Frankfurt Book Fair was the rare opportunity for us to meet in person. We got to have our own face-to-face meetings, tackle challenges head-on, and together as a team connect with our partners on a more personal level. In a world dominated by digital screens, this was an invaluable experience, one that breathed life into our collaborations and solidified the bonds we had formed.
End Of Year One
As we looked back on our journey, it hit us that the Frankfurt Book Fair also marked the end of our first year in the publishing world. It was like a chance to throw a little party for all the hard work, dedication, and passion we poured into creating our books and connecting with readers.
What made it even sweeter was seeing that all that effort was starting to pay off with more sales, growth, and, most importantly, loads of valuable experience. Amid all the running around at this massive event, our first go at the Frankfurt Book Fair reminded us how books and stories bring people together, how important inclusivity is, and how the arts can be a unifying force.
