London Book Fair unveils full line-up for online edition

The London Book Fair has unveiled the full programme for its Online Book Fair, with seminars, panel debates and author events taking place from 21st June to 1st July.

Topics covered diverse include diverse narratives, sustainable publishing, children’s access to books, Brexit and bookselling. The events programme will kick off with a keynote speech given by journalist, podcaster and Slay in Your Lane (Fourth Estate) author Yomi Adegoke, who will be discussing diversity in publishing and how the industry can become more inclusive and accessible.

Elsewhere on the bill is a session on making the UN sustainable development goals a reality, chaired by Karina Urquhart, executive director of Book Industry Communication. Bodour Al Qasimi, president of the International Publishers Association, will speak on why accessibility to books is essential for children around the world.

Jacaranda Books founder and c.e.o. Valerie Brandes will discuss the publisher’s work championing Black voices and stories, while literary and TV scout Philippa Donovan will address adapting books to screen.

YA Book Prize chair Caroline Carpenter of The Bookseller will host a session on getting noticed in the crowded YA market while David Hetherington of Books International talks about mitigation of risk in the book supply chain.

Authors taking part in the fair include Abi Silver, Lola Shoneyin, R J McBrien, Alexandra Christos, Paul Mason, Lucy Caldwell, Mark Stay, Mark Gevisser, Lisa Bent, Chloe Gong, Anni Domingo and more. Matt Haig is Author of the Fair, appearing in conversation with journalist and comedian Viv Groskop at 9.15 a.m. on 29th July.

Building on previous years’ fair programmes, the 2021 edition will also eature a number of sessions centred around the world of literary translation. The English PEN Literary Salon will host events discussing publishing topics from around the globe.

Hannah Brewer, conference manager at the London Book Fair, said: “We are so excited to announce the incredible programme for the Online Book Fair, featuring bestselling authors, award-winning journalists, publishing experts and many more wonderful speakers. With panels, seminars and talks on topics ranging from censorship to environmental sustainability, literary translation to accessibility, this year’s programme tackles the key issues facing the publishing world today, and we look forward to hearing the vital insights being shared at these sessions.”

The seminar programme will remain accessible to view until 16th July. For more information on the line-up, visit the LBF website.