A Preview of the Frankfurt Book Fair 2013
Within the publishing world, the annual October Frankfurt Book Fair (or Frankfurter Buchmesse) is the biggest event of the year and the largest book trade fair in the world. Over 7,000 exhibitors and more than 250,000 visitors including publishers, editors, agents, writers and the general public come together to share new books, sell rights to the books in foreign languages and get a pulse on what’s new in publishing. The fair draws some of the biggest names in publishing and media from across the globe, and the first three days are reserved for trade visitors. The final three days are open to the general public. If you fancy a visit to the best book fair around, head online and get your airline tickets to Frankfurt today.
An Historical Event
The FBF dates back more than 500 years to around the 1440s when the first book fair was held for local booksellers near Frankfurt. This first book fair came about as a result of the development of printing in movable letters by Johannes Gutenberg only a few years earlier. For a few hundred years the book fair continued to grow in importance and influence and by the 17th century was considered to be the most important in Europe. In the late 1600s it was surpassed by the Leipzig Book Fair in the number of books presented. It wasn’t until after World War II that Frankfurt regained its number one position as the largest book fair in Europe. The FBF continues to grow in popularity today.
Literary Significance
Not only is the FBF one of the most important outlets for launching new books, but is also responsible for facilitating various book negotiations, sale rights and publishing licences all over the world. Thousands of industry people attend this event, from authors, publishers, printers and film producers to illustrators and software suppliers.
Because of its influence and importance within the international publishing industry, various book fairs similar in size and significance have popped up. Based on the same model as the FBF, the Cape Town Book Fair was established in 2006, and in 2009 the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair was also launched.
Guest of Honour
The FBF guest of honour has been an important aspect of the book fair since 1976. Each year, one country is chosen for a special literary programme to be set up in the exhibition hall to showcase the country’s literature. The exhibition includes art exhibits, readings, media exhibits and discussion panels. The major publishing houses from this country are also present with exhibits. In 2012 New Zealand was the chosen guest of honour and the motto of their exhibition was “While you were sleeping.”
The 2013 guest of honour is going to be Brazil. Their motto is “A land full of voices,” and they plan to showcase Brazil’s wealth, vibrancy and diverse culture and creativity. As guest of honour at the 2013 FBF, Brazil hopes to promote their translation support programme, as well as a large number of new literature releases.
Some Interesting Statistics
In 2006 the FBF was a great success, attracting 7,272 separate exhibitors representing 113 countries. Over the seven days, more than 183,000 trade visitors came to learn, explore and discover. In 2009, the fair saw more than 300,000 visitors explore in excess of 400,000 books on display from the 7,314 individual exhibitors who represented over 100 countries.
What to Expect in 2013
This year’s book fair is set to offer diversity and creativity like never before. Cookery shows, young industry trainees, dedicated areas for illustration, international dialogue, comics, children’s literature, media and education, the 2013 FBF will offer something for everyone.
In 2012 almost 70 per cent of visitors were from Europe, almost 16 per cent were from Asia, and Australasia made up five per cent of trade visitors, while American visitors made up just over four-and-a-half per cent. African and South American visitors made up almost two per cent and just fewer than four per cent, respectively.
Image from Flickr’s Creative Commons
About the Author: As a travel agent working in Auckland, Sandra Peetz enjoys showcasing unique holiday experiences for discerning travellers. With a love for Europe, Sandra has some great holiday ideas to make any trip a memorable one.
