Readers’ interests at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair have become increasingly diverse, with visitors exploring a wide range of subjects beyond traditional literature.
A visit to different stalls at the fair on Monday showed that readers are no longer limiting their choices to fiction alone. Alongside novels and short stories, many were seen browsing books on politics, history, economics, psychology, technology and self-development.
Among young readers in particular, there is growing enthusiasm for books on contemporary global issues as well as translated works by renowned foreign authors. At the same time, fiction, thrillers and science fiction continue to enjoy strong popularity.
The fair also features a vibrant section for children and adolescents. In addition to stories, rhymes and poetry, stalls are offering illustrated storybooks, science-based titles and various creative educational materials.
Publishers say readers today are seeking more than entertainment. They want to learn, understand complex issues and prepare themselves for the future, leading to an expansion in the thematic range of published books.
Nusaiba, who visited the fair with friends from Uttara, said she purchased “Othoijol” by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay. “I haven’t explored all the stalls yet. After looking around, I will buy the books I like,” she said.
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Another visitor, Rakib Hasan, said translated literature now attracts him more. “I read these books to understand the thoughts and ideas of foreign writers,” he added.
Durjoy Chandra Sarkar, a sales representative at the Batighar stall, said a wide range of titles is available at their outlet. “Short stories, thrillers, translated works and classics are selling the most,” he said.
Arman Hossain, a salesperson at Janata Prokashoni, echoed the trend, noting that short story collections, science-related books and translated works of famous personalities are seeing higher sales at their stall.
However, on the fifth day of the fair, overall attendance of readers and visitors remained relatively modest, similar to other non-holiday days. According to the information centre, 40 new titles were submitted to the fair on the day.
At 3:00 pm, the main stage hosted a discussion titled ‘150th Birth Anniversary: Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay.’ The keynote paper was presented by Hamim Kamrul Haque, while Parvez Hossain took part in the discussion. Shafiqunnabi Samadi chaired the session. Later, in the “Lekhok Bolchi” segment, writers Farsheem Mannan Mohammadi and Ejaz Yousufi spoke about their books.