On May 30th, the 12th International Book Arsenal Festival opened in Kiev, Ukraine. This annual event celebrates literature and brings together authors, publishers, and book lovers from all over the world. This year, one of the stands at the festival showcased a powerful and emotional display — books that were burned during the shelling of a publishing house in Kharkiv by Russian occupiers.
The festival, which runs until June 3rd, is a celebration of literature and a platform for promoting freedom of speech and expression. It is a reminder that books have the power to transcend borders and unite people, even in the face of conflict and oppression.
The stand, titled «Books That Survived War,» is a collaboration between the Ukrainian Book Institute and the Kharkiv Book Forum. It features books that were rescued from the ruins of the Kharkiv publishing house, which was destroyed during the Russian occupation in 2024. These books serve as a symbol of resilience and the enduring power of literature.
Among the books on display is «The History of Ukraine» by Mykhailo Hrushevsky, a renowned Ukrainian historian and politician. This book, along with many others, was targeted and destroyed by the Russian occupiers in an attempt to erase Ukrainian history and culture. However, thanks to the efforts of brave individuals who risked their lives to save these books, they have been preserved and are now on display for the world to see.
The display has attracted a lot of attention and has been a source of inspiration for many visitors. It serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed by the Russian occupiers and the importance of preserving and promoting Ukrainian culture and literature.
The festival has also provided a platform for discussions and debates on the role of literature in times of conflict. Many authors and publishers have shared their experiences of censorship and oppression, highlighting the importance of freedom of speech and expression.
The Book Arsenal Festival is not just a celebration of literature, but also a celebration of the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. Despite facing numerous challenges, they continue to fight for their culture and identity through the power of literature.
The festival has also been a great success in terms of book sales. Many visitors have purchased the books on display, not only as a way to support Ukrainian literature but also as a way to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
The display of these books serves as a powerful reminder that literature is not just a source of entertainment, but also a means of preserving history and culture. It is a testament to the enduring power of books and their ability to withstand even the most difficult of times.
In conclusion, the 12th International Book Arsenal Festival in Kiev has once again proven to be a celebration of literature, culture, and resilience. The display of books that survived war serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting literature, especially in times of conflict. It is a testament to the strength and determination of the Ukrainian people, and a reminder that books have the power to unite and inspire us all.
