• 2nd edition of Bookworm Fest set to ignite minds with rich fare of literature
• Easterine Kire’s latest book “Son of the Thundercloud” to be released on day one
Vishü Rita Krocha
Kohima | November 27
The tepid and inconsistent Hornbill Literature Fest may not have satiated booklovers but this one’s sure going to spark interest for literature aficionados. The second edition of “Bookworm Fest” which is set to take place from November 29 till December 5, 2016 at APO Building, Kohima is an outcome of popular demand both from the local business community and literature lovers alike.
Speaking to The Morung Express, noted poet and novelist, Easterine Kire said, “it is very important to have a literature fest for us, lovers of literature” while stating that “it is a pity they stopped” (referring to the Hornbill Literature Fest). However, she asserted that the Bookworm Fest is not a substitute but enlightened that “we want to give space to youngsters who love literature.” “This is a new thing and we want to nurture it,” she added.
Putting across that a new feature for the second edition would be “Open Mic”, she also observed that the organisers no longer have to go looking for participants, but there are already people lined up to perform. “They want to jump in and we need to give them space”, she asserted. She further disclosed that so far, 28 stalls comprising of bookstores and stalls catering to different categories such as local food products, crafts, etc have confirmed their participation and expressed hope that it could possibly reach 30.
For emerging poet, Chenenlo Woch, “the first edition of Bookworm fest has been a very enriching experience” even as he put across that the fest is a true game changer for the literature culture in the state. He also referred to it as a resourceful platform for exposing young talents while creating a conducive environment that invites fresh interest and reinvigorates interest in the literary form of art. “This event not only appreciates literature but also serves as the enabling agent in facilitating such appreciation”, he added.
The Festival is not only meant for individual book lovers, but also serves as a great opportunity for schools, colleges, cultural and recreational groups and government departments to update their libraries by availing of the offer with everything under one roof. It will further bring together local businesses selling homemade food items, handmade arts and crafts, home décor, fresh flowers and others.
In this regard, Dr. Vizovono Elizabeth noted that, “it is very encouraging that all the participants are local vendors, who have their own narrative of self expression and creative sustenance.”
The event further aims to provide a platform for the artists, craftsmen, writers, poets, musicians, and storytellers. There will be literary events and live performances featuring both established and fresh new voices, and special guest appearances every evening while ‘Open Mic’ nights will be held on December 1 and 2 where anyone is free to come and read their original poetry, sing songs or tell stories.
Meanwhile, Easterine Kire’s latest book titled, “Son of the Thundercloud” published by ‘Speaking Tiger’ will also be released on the opening day (November 29, 2016) at 11:30 am. It may be noted that the Bookworm Fest is an initiative of likeminded people who have come together with the objective of “bridging boundaries through literature” and the second edition is being organised by a team comprising of members from Barkweaver Publications, Crossword, De Oriental Grand Hotel and Little Niceties.
The seven day event will be a one- stop shop for bibliophiles with major bookstores of Kohima including the participation of publishing houses like Barkweaver Publications (Tromso; Norway), Zubaan Books (New Delhi) and PenThrill Publication House (Kohima). Books of all genres will also be available for all age groups including used books, while vendors are further offering special discount offers upto 50%.
