The 29th edition of the Algiers International Book Fair, also known as Sila 2026, kicked off on October 29 and will run until November 7. This year's event has attracted prominent authors, including Benjamin Stora, Said Sadi, Kaylia Nemour, and Yasmina Khadra. The fair is being held at the Palais des Expositions, where visitors can explore various stalls and engage with authors. The event aims to promote literature and bring readers, publishers, and writers together.
Several new book releases are being showcased at the fair. Yasmina Khadra's "Le prieur de Bethléem," Anouar Benmalek's "Irina," a Russian opera, and Benjamin Stora's "Un historien et des images: l'Algérie en guerre (1954-1962)" are among the notable titles. Said Sadi's "L'Histoire comme miroir" and Kaylia Nemour's "L'ombre de l'or" are also being presented by their authors. Faiza Guène's "Salam Manifesto" is another highlight of the event.
The ANEP (National Enterprise for Communication, Publishing, and Advertising) stand is one of the most popular attractions at the fair. The stand features a mini-stage where children can participate in storytelling sessions and workshops. A conteuse is regaling children with stories from Algeria's heritage, while an "atelier du petit journaliste" allows kids to interview Mohamed Brik, a former Moudjahid. The ANEP is also launching three new titles, including "Révoltés pour la dignité" by Mostéfa Khiati and "Elnet le lobby israélien au cœur du pouvoir français" by Ahmed Bensaada.
Kaylia Nemour, an Olympic champion, will be signing her autobiography, "L'ombre de l'or," at the ANEP stand on November 6. The book fair has also attracted visitors from various backgrounds, with many showing interest in the stalls showcasing Palestinian literature. Rima Hassan's "Palestine errante" has been a bestseller at the Média Plus stand, which has returned to the fair after a five-year absence.
New publishing houses are also making their presence felt at the fair. Aram Editions, which recently launched, is focusing on English-language books, including classics by Oscar Wilde, Jane Austin, and Jack London. Rahima Benmalek, a collaborator with Aram Editions, notes that there is a growing interest among young readers for English literature. Another new publishing house, Les Editions Sirat, is promoting a book on Algerian cuisine, which was first published in 1978.
The Sirat publishing house is run by Mahir Bouayed, who has re-released his mother's book on Algerian cuisine in both French and Arabic. The book features authentic recipes that have been passed down through generations. Papyrus, a small publishing house, is also participating in the fair, with a focus on children's books about Algeria's revolution. Souhila Amirat, the publisher, says that their books have been well-received by young readers.
The 2026 Algiers International Book Fair will continue until November 7, offering a platform for authors, publishers, and readers to engage with each other. The event has featured various notable authors and has showcased a range of new book releases.
Key points
- Notable authors like Benjamin Stora, Kaylia Nemour, Said Sadi, and Yasmina Khadra are attending the 2026 Algiers International Book Fair.
- The fair features new book releases, including "Le prieur de Bethléem" and "Un historien et des images: l'Algérie en guerre (1954-1962)".
- The event aims to promote literature and bring readers, publishers, and writers together.
