Bangkok Literature Festival 2023
A Weekend of Words, Ideas, and Inspiration in the Heart of Bangkok
A Vibrant Return to Literary Celebration
The Neilson Hays Library Literature Festival made a vibrant return in 2023 with an unforgettable weekend celebrating books, authors, and the power of storytelling. Held in the historic grounds of Neilson Hays Library, Bangkok (หอสมุดเนียลสัน เฮส์), the festival was a dynamic gathering of readers, writers, publishers, and creatives from Thailand and beyond.
Bridging Cultures and Communities through Storytelling
Spanning two days, the 2023 festival transformed the library and its lush garden into a buzzing hub of literary activity. With over 20 sessions, including book launches, panel discussions, poetry readings, and creative workshops, the event welcomed people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate the written word.
Featured Authors & Special Guests
The 2023 festival featured an impressive lineup of local and international authors, offering a rich mix of perspectives and genres.
Adam Higginbotham
U.K.Author of Midnight in Chernobyl, an international bestseller translated into 25 languages. His writing has appeared in The New Yorker, Wired, and The New York Times Magazine.
Bernardine Evaristo
U.K.Won the 2019 Booker Prize for Girl, Woman, Other, becoming the first black woman to win the award. Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel University London.
Toshikazu Kawaguchi
JapanNovelist and stage director. His debut novel, Before the Coffee Gets Cold, sold over 3.8 million copies worldwide and has been adapted for the screen.
Amy Sawitta Lefevre
ThailandAward-winning journalist with 15 years of reporting across Asia-Pacific. Former Reuters deputy bureau chief for Thailand and Indochina.
Will Schwalbe
U.S.Author and editor at Macmillan, known for The End of Your Life Book Club and Books for Living. Regular contributor to The New York Times.
Win Nimman
ThailandPoet, singer-songwriter, and healer known as RomanticraiPoet. Published seven poetry books and creates "Rock 'n' Romantic" songs.
Festival Photo Gallery
Capturing the moments, conversations, and community spirit of the 2023 Literature Festival
Festival Highlights
From engaging panel talks to hands-on workshops, the festival offered something for everyone in a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere.
Panel Discussions
From Southeast Asian historical fiction to climate change conversations, inspiring audiences with lively Q&As.
Creative Workshops
Self-portraits for kids, bookmaking, calligraphy, botanical watercolor, and creative writing for all ages.
Book Market
Independent publishers, secondhand book sellers, and literary organizations filled the garden.
Community Vibe
Book signings, author meet-and-greets, and delicious treats in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Workshops for All Ages
For Young Creators: Self Portraits for Kids, Beloved Toys Maker Workshop inspired by Nathalie Lété's book
For Teens & Adults: Bookmaking with traditional coptic stitch binding, English Roundhand Calligraphy, Spanish Story Scrabble
Visual Arts: Botanical Watercolour Illustration with Malaysian artist Syarifah Nadhirah, capturing Thai and Malaysian flora
Creative Writing: Thai-language workshops with art4d, idea generation, and personal style development
Why It Mattered
The 2023 Literature Festival was more than a weekend event — it was a celebration of Bangkok's literary spirit and the enduring relevance of books in a digital age. By hosting conversations, cultural activities, and book club-style events in Bangkok, the library created a space for connection and discovery in a setting that is both historic and forward-looking.
Cultural Impact
As Bangkok grows as a cultural capital in Southeast Asia, events like this foster creativity, support local talent, and build bridges across communities and cultures.
Historic Setting
The neoclassical architecture of Neilson Hays Library, designed by Mario Tamagno, provided a fitting backdrop — a venue where history meets new ideas.
Be Part of the Story
The 2023 festival laid the groundwork for future events. Stay connected with us for updates on upcoming author talks, workshops, and cultural gatherings at Bangkok's historic library.
The Literature Festival wouldn't be possible without the support of volunteers, sponsors, and the community. Whether you're a reader, writer, or simply curious, there's a place for you at our next festival.