Posted by Monica Cardenas on 23 February 2022, in Byte Experts, News
BolognaBookPlus, designed to satisfy your hunger for books.
What exactly is BolognaBookPlus?
BolognaBookPlus is the new brand extension of the acclaimed children’s book fair, aimed at general/ adult trade. It soft-launched last year, online along with so many other events of 2021. In the absence of the in-person element we were delighted with the reception of the digital content we programmed.
How did you become Guest Director of this new event?
After I left my position of Director of The London Book Fair, Elena Pasoli, Director of BCBF shared her vision of expanding BCBF to serve a general trade audience. Challenging and fun in equal measure, both Elena and the idea were irresistible!
Where does it take place?
It takes place inside the Bologna Children’s Book Fair (Hall 29) at the same time, 21-24 March 2022 in Bologna.
What does it comprise?
Simply put - three elements: an exhibition with agents and publishers; half-day training events; a seminar and content programme including an author ambassador programme featuring Michele Roberts; a book jacket showcase; and lots of networking.
What are the training events?
On Sunday 20th the second edition of How to Sell Rights and Understand Licensing in Children’s Books takes place in the afternoon. This is a comprehensive programme on selling rights essentials, and understanding copyright.
Monday 21st brings the How to Self Publish in Italy and Beyond, again in its second year.
Tuesday 22nd hosts a new event for aspiring literary agents: Call Your Agent: How to Become a Successful Literary Agent
A ticket for any of these secures you entry to BolognaBookPlus and Bologna Children’s Book Fair, for all fair open days.
What language will the events be in ?
The training conferences, apart from How to Self-Publish in Italy and Abroad, are delivered in English, as are the events in the seminar programme.
What are you most looking forward to in this first in-person iteration?
Well, apart from seeing everyone face-to-face, rather than on a screen, I love seeing a floor plan, essentially a plan on paper, come to life. And similarly, I look forward to seeing the training events take place with a live audience, after much planning and discussion. In fact, pretty much everything after the two year drought!
Do you have a favourite Bologna restaurant? And favourite dish?
That would be telling! But believe me, wherever you eat in Bologna, you won’t be disappointed. I have a lingering taste of the most delicious salad of fennel and orange from an autumn visit to meet with our Italian colleagues. Oh, but then there was also the great plate of pasta. And then the Columba cake. Ohhh...the coffee...the orange juice. Hmmm, I really recommend a visit to the book fair to find your own Bolognase favourites.
What piece of advice would you give someone visiting Bologna for the first time?
Plan well in advance, so you are well prepared, not just for Covid regulations, but for travel, your time at the fair and your evening events. And...enjoy everything on offer!
