One-Day Event Features Global Authors

The Istanbul Literature Festival will commence on 14th June 2026 at KalemHouse in Gacık Village, Yalova. Under the theme ‘Literature Garden’, the event will centre around children’s literature.

Susanne Gervay and Markus Zusak are among the renowned authors engaging with readers. In its 18th year, ITEF adapts to economic challenges by condensing the event into a single day, maintaining a vibrant lineup of discussions and workshops.

Authors Hafize Çınar Güner and Simge Konu will start the event with ‘Are Children First?’, focusing on children’s literature and criteria for selecting books for young readers. This session will highlight literature’s crucial role in childhood development.

Diverse Discussions Scheduled

Following the children’s literature session, the festival will shift its focus to adult literature. ‘Are We Reading?’ will feature Cem Erciyes and Saadet Özen, examining current reading habits and reasons behind declining readership.

Ayşe Burçak and Merve Diler will discuss the significance of short stories in publishing. Alongside, Mehmet Mollaosmanoğlu and Nermin Mollaoğlu will engage in a conversation about writing from afar.

Dutch author Tiemen Hiemstra will discuss his novel ‘W.’ with editor Serda Kranda Kapucuoğlu in the session ‘Who Is Lost, Who Remains?’. Oya Baydar will conclude the day in conversation with Bahar Albayrak during ‘Whose Memory Does the Past Live in?’.

Supported by the Consulate General of the Netherlands, the festival is free and open to the public. Visitors can find further details on the festival’s website or their social media platforms.

Over the past two years, the festival posed thematic questions to participants. In 2024, ‘What Is Your Story?’ was the focus, while 2025 explored ‘What Is Literature For?’. This year, the approach renews with an invigorating theme, despite a shorter duration.

Since its inception, ITEF has welcomed 636 authors from around the world, turning it into a significant cultural event. Despite economic constraints, the festival continues to thrive with a reimagined format.

Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:51 am