The Caen Book Fair: Époque
The Caen Book Fair: An Unmissable Literary Event
The Caen Book Fair is one of the major cultural events in Normandy. Every year, it brings together authors, publishers, booksellers and reading enthusiasts to share the same passion: literature. This not-to-be-missed event offers a rich program of conferences, book signings, meetings and literary events, attracting visitors from all horizons. Find out all you need to know about the Salon du Livre de Caen, its importance for the French literary scene, and why you shouldn’t miss this edition.
A Literary Event in the Heart of Caen
History of the Caen Book Fair
For several decades now, the Caen Book Fair has been held in the Normandy capital, reinforcing its role as a literary crossroads every year. Created to promote literature in all its forms, this event has rapidly established itself as a must-attend event for book lovers, whether professionals in the sector or ordinary readers. Its aim is not only to promote reading, but also to showcase local and international talent.
An Ideal Setting for Literature
Caen, a university and cultural city, offers an ideal setting for this fair. Its many bookshops, libraries and cultural exchanges make it a dynamic city, conducive to literary creation. The fair takes place in emblematic venues such as the Centre des Congrès, the Abbaye aux Dames or the Hôtel de Ville, adding a historical and cultural dimension to the event.
A Rich and Varied Program
Meetings and Signings with Famous Authors
The Caen Book Fair is distinguished by the richness of its program. Every year, dozens of renowned authors from France and abroad are invited to present their works, meet their readers and discuss their literary practices. Signing sessions are organized throughout the event, enabling enthusiasts to leave with a book signed by their favorite author.
Past guests have included some of the most prestigious names in contemporary literature, as well as emerging authors making their debut in the world of letters. The fair makes a point of representing all literary genres, from fiction to thrillers, from comics to children’s literature.
Conferences and round tables on topical issues
Alongside the book signings, the show features a large number of conferences and round tables. These cover a wide range of subjects, from current literary events to the major issues facing the world today. The literary debates are led by specialists, authors and journalists, and provide an opportunity to explore in depth themes as diverse as freedom of expression, changes in the publishing world and the evolution of digital technology in literature.
These discussions provide an opportunity to reflect on the future of reading and the place of writers in our society. For those with a passion for intellectual debate, these conferences are not to be missed.
Workshops and Activities for All Ages
The Caen Book Fair is not just for fans of adult literature. In fact, a wide-ranging program of events is designed for children and families. Reading, writing and drawing workshops are offered for the very young, to introduce them to the pleasures of reading and creativity. These activities are often led by authors of children’s literature or illustrators, enabling children to meet talented creators.
Writing workshops for adults are also a great success. They offer a unique opportunity for literary enthusiasts to perfect their pen and benefit from the advice of professionals. Whether you want to learn how to write novels, short stories or poetry, these workshops are a real springboard for those wishing to embark on a literary adventure.
Highlights of the 2024 Edition
A Focus on Ecological and Societal Literature
The 2024 edition of the Caen Book Fair will focus on ecological and societal literature. At a time when environmental issues are more topical than ever, many authors are taking up these themes in their works. This year, several conferences will focus on how literature can help raise public awareness of ecological issues and social challenges.
Visitors will have the opportunity to attend debates with committed authors who place these issues at the heart of their stories. This thematic focus will explore the diversity of literary approaches to these crucial issues.
Authors in the spotlight
Each edition of the Salon du Livre features one or more authors in the spotlight. In 2024, 150 authors, illustrators and artists were invited. The city of Caen set up an ephemeral bookshop in the heart of the city hall, a space for sales and signings, bringing together 11 Caen bookshops and 40 Norman publishers.
A Literary Prize for Talent
As every year, the Caen Book Fair awards a literary prize to an emerging or established author. Awarded by a jury of book professionals and literary enthusiasts, the prize is an important recognition for authors, and a great opportunity to shine the spotlight on little-known talent.
Why take part in the Caen Book Fair?
A Place of Discovery for Literature Lovers
The Caen Book Fair is a veritable celebration of books and reading. Whether you’re an avid reader, an aspiring writer or simply curious, this event is the ideal opportunity to discover new works, meet inspiring authors and enrich your knowledge of literature.
A city rich in history and culture
Taking part in the Book Fair is also an opportunity to discover Caen, a city steeped in history and culture. Take advantage of your visit to explore the city’s heritage treasures, such as the Château de Caen, the Abbaye aux Hommes and the many historic churches that dot the city.
A family-friendly event
The Caen Book Fair is also a family-friendly event. Thanks to the many events and workshops, young and old alike will find plenty to marvel at, and share a moment together around books. Relaxation areas, bookshops and publishers’ stands will also enable you to stroll around and discover new books in a relaxed atmosphere.
If you love books and want to experience a moment of exchange, discovery and reflection, don’t miss this year’s Salon du Livre de Caen. You’ll come away inspired, probably with a few new books under your arm.
Practical information:
Where? Esplanade Jean-Marie Louvel, 14000 Caen
When? May 24 and 25, 2025
Stay at Clos Saint Martin:
Le Clos Saint-Martin: your haven of peace during the Salon du Livre.
After a day with your head full of literature, come back to the charm of an old mansion. Located just a stone’s throw from the Salon du Livre, Le Clos Saint-Martin is the ideal place to recharge your batteries and perhaps even meet other literary enthusiasts. We offer 6 tastefully decorated guest rooms, as well as a comfortable gîte to relax in during your stay. You can also enjoy breakfast on site before setting out on your new day.
Book your stay at Clos Saint-Martin now!
