The International Island Book Fair returns to Ossant from July 13 to 16 for its 24th edition. Ireland will be a red thread in this new season, Ireland, but also Easter Island and the Brittany Islands. In contrast to social distancing and low numbers, Isabelle Le Bal asks herself the question that no one in the cultural world dares to ask: “Will the public be there? This year, organizers are turning the page on Covid-19 and expect to welcome 3,000 to 4,000 curious people on Breton Island.

Some new content

The show’s main theme, Irish literature and culture, will pay homage to the 100th anniversary of the publication of James Joyce’s famous “Ulysses(s)” in France. While honoring the themes of this edition, two great innovations should please young and old alike. First, in more than twenty gardens on the island, writers and actors will offer free reading sessions accessible to all. The second innovation: a major memory project will “highlight Brittany’s intangible heritage (expressions, knowledge, etc.),” ​​explains Isabelle Le Bal, president of the Islands’ Culture, Arts and Letters (CALI).

But deep-rooted traditions

As every year, the International Show delivers Creac’h traffic light, an opportunity to welcome a new resident. This year, Dublin-based Irish author Neil Hegart has the honor of taking up residence for a literary work in residence. Participating in the show, he will introduce several of his novels to the public. For those who love reading or are simply curious, the book fair will be an opportunity to meet, as tradition dictates, during musical asides, fest-nos and concerts. Bagpipe player Yon Ann Nedelegh will have the honor of closing the event with music on July 16 at 9 p.m.