Russia, refugees at focus of Thessaloniki International Book Fair

The 13th Thessaloniki International Book Fair is taking place at the Helexpo exhibition center (154 Egnatia) from May 12 to 15 with two special tributes, the first to Russian literature as part of the Year of Greek-Russian Friendship, and the second to refugee crises past and present.

This year's event promises selections from around the world as it will represent 20 countries, while 23 international writers in addition to the Russians have been invited to speak to the public and present their work.

Another highlight is a mini-festival celebrating the art of translation, which will address issues such as how we communicate ideas in different languages. This parallel event will take place in the Babel Hall and will include workshops and talks by respected translators from different fields.

Russia is certainly the guest of honor, with 500 square meters at its disposal on the site, where visitors will be offered insight into the vast and culturally rich country's historical and cultural evolution. There will be talks presented by Russian writers, round-table discussions, lectures, poetry readings as well as language and translation programs.

The second special theme this year is “Refugees, Then and Today.” This tribute consists of books and studies dedicated to the subject, but also two exhibitions, one of photography and the other of artworks, aimed at raising awareness about the refugee crisis in Greece and the European Union today.

For more information, log on to thessalonikibookfair.gr.