Writers / Speakers

Monica Aasprong & Hanne Ørstavik: Aspects of Norwegian Literature
The Norwegian poet, prose writer and translator Monica Aasprong and the Norwegian prose writer Hanne Ørstavik (“Love”), one of the most important voices of contemporary Scandinavian prose, discuss with translator Sotiris Souliotis their recent work and their influences.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Norwegian Literature Abroad / Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“A Musical Bridge Between Greece and Turkey,” Honoring Zülfü Livaneli
A special musical evening dedicated to the deep friendship and artistic meeting of two iconic creators: Mikis Theodorakis and Zülfü Livaneli. The performance will be by Ioanna Forti, with Heraklis Zakkas on bouzouki, Alexandros Kapsokavadis on guitar, and Achilleas Wastor on piano, who is also responsible for the artistic direction of the program. Greetings will be delivered by Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor for Culture of Chania, and Giorgos Agorastakis, president of the Pan-Cretan Association of Mikis Theodorakis Friends.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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Concert with Dora Bakopoulou: “When poetry became a song”
The piano soloist Dora Bakopoulou with Angeliki Liouka on vocals present a musical programme dedicated to the lyrics of great poets (Elytis, Gatsos, Livaditis, Ritsos, Seferis, etc.) set to music by Mikis Theodorakis.

Giorgos Agorastakis introduces with a speech on the topic “Bibliography for Mikis Theodorakis.”

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

La Grèce antique dans le roman moderne
Authors Kostas Akrivos and Nikos A. Mantis discuss their books “Andromachi” (“Andromache”) and “Kithaironas” (“Kithairon”), respectively. Moderator: Grigoris Bekos, journalist.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing & Metaixmio Publishing.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

The Normalization of the Far Right in the West
A discussion on the rise, normalization, and dynamics of the far right in the contemporary Western world. Participants include Davide Coppo, Italian author and journalist, Nikos A. Alivizatos, emeritus professor of Constitutional Law at the Law School of the University of Athens, Stavros Zoumboulakis, president of the Board of Trustees of the National Library of Greece, Makis Malafekas, author, and Louis-Philippe Dalembert, Haitian author. Moderated by Manolis Pimplis, journalist and director of the Chania Book Festival.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Mavrokordatos kai Trikoupis, Venizelos kai Karamanlis: I architektones tou politevmatos. Apo tis ohthes tou Tamesi stin plateia Syntagmatos” (“Mavrokordatos and Trikoupis, Venizelos and Karamanlis: The Architects of the Political System. From the Banks of the Thames to Syntagma Square”) by Nikos K. Alivizatos
Nikos K. Alivizatos, Emeritus Professor of Constitutional Law at the Law School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), discusses his book “Mavrokordatos kai Trikoupis, Venizelos kai Karamanlis: I architektones tou politevmatos” (“Mavrokordatos and Trikoupis, Venizelos and Karamanlis: The Architects of the Political System”) with the Mayor of Chania, Panagiotis Simandirakis, and Nikolaos Emm. Papadakis, Director of the National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos.” Moderation: Giorgos Koukourakis, political scientist, Associate Director of the National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: National Research and Study Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos” / Metaixmio Publishing 

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

The issue of modern Greek literature with LGBTQ+ content
Discussion with Christos Machairidis, writer, Iosif Alygisakis, writer, and Roula Vouraki, philologist-writer.

Co-organised by Erisma Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

From great to “Little Dangerous Ones”: a landmark book on the thinking of a whole generation
“Mikres epikindynes” (“Little Dangerous Ones”) (Key Books Publishing) is about 100 girls, from 13-22 years old, who shared their stories fearlessly, honestly and bravely. Member of Parliament for Chania Sevi Amanatidou-Voloudaki, Emmanouela Katzouraki, World Shooting Champion and Marianna Skylakaki, CEO of AtheNEAs, discuss the book.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

A discussion on the book “Politiki tou politismou” (“The Politics of Culture”) by Myrsini Zorba
Dr. Maria Andreadaki Vlazaki, Archaeologist and former General Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, journalist Mikela Chartoulari, and author and researcher Pavlina Marvin discuss the release of the revised edition of Myrsini Zorba’s book “Politiki tou politismou” (“The Politics of Culture”).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Epicheirisi ‘Nostos’” (“Operation ‘Nostos’”) by Nikolas Zirganos
Investigative journalist and screenwriter Nikolas Zirganos, known for his research on the international antiquities smuggling network, discusses his new book with Maria Andreadaki-Vlazaki, PhD in Archaeology and former General Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, and journalist Mikela Chartoulari.

Co-organized by Topos Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Techniti noimosyni gia olous” (“Artificial intelligence for all”) by Manolis Andriotakis
Journalist and author Manolis Andriotakis discusses his new book (Psichogios Publishing), a concise guide to the dynamics of technological developments and the primary issues stemming from the increasing use of artificial intelligence in various aspects of our lives.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Antenna first” – Polymorphic, interactive installation
Chania Art Gallery presents a polymorphic, interactive installation by Yannis Markantonakis (curator: Dimitris Angelatos, Professor of Modern Greek Literature and Literary Theory), with the friendly participation of sixteen visual artists, on 8+8 portraits of Italian and European writers from the 80 presented by Antaeus Chrysostomidis and Mikela Chartoulari in the State-owned public television channel “ET1” TV show “The Lightnings of Our Time”: Antonio Tabucchi – Pisa, Umberto Eco – Bologna, Massimo Carlotto – Padova, Donna Leon-Venice, Niccolò Ammaniti – Rome, Dario Fo – Milan, Claudio Magris – Trieste, Andrea Camilleri – Agrigento, Sicily, Maurice Attia – Algiers, Pierre Assouline – Paris, Herta Müller – Berlin, Peter Esterházy – Budapest, Andrey Kurkov – Kiev, Orhan Pamuk – Istanbul, José Saramago – Lisbon,  Enrique Vila-Matas – Barcelona. 

2nd Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Apofloiosi kai akonisma. O poiitis glyptis: i elegeia stis “Satires” tou K.G. Karyotaki” (“Peeling and sharpening. The poet sculptor: the elegy in K.G. Karyotakis’s “Satires”) by Dimitris Angelatos
The Professor of Modern Greek Literature and Literary Theory Dimitris Angelatos discusses his new book with the journalist Kiriaki Beioglou. 

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Mitos: on the edge of the Labyrinth”
The “Chania Art Space” Art Gallery presents the exhibition “Mitos: on the edge of the Labyrinth” (curator: Yannis P. Markantonakis, secretarial support: Zoe Kollarou, scientific collaborator: Dimitris Angelatos) with the participation of 34 Cretan visual artists (Lefteris Vergerakis, Sofia Vlazaki, Yannis Dialinos, Vicky Kamenou, Irini Kana, Amalia Karkoulia, Zoe Kollarou, Stella Koukoulaki, Vangelis Lazaris, Yannis P. Markantonakis, Pantelis Markantonakis, Stavroula Mavromataki, Maria Michelogianni, Lambrini Boviatsou, Vasso Mylonogianni, Daphne Mylonogianni, Grigoris Niolis, Pagona Xenaki, Kostas Pagomenos, Onoufrios Papatzanakis, Aglaia Peraki, Sylvia Petsoura, Manolis Petrakis, Vasso Protopapadaki, Vangelis Roussos, Chrysoula Skepetzi, Lena Taki, Irini Tsiraki, Konstantinos Fisher, Antonis Frantzeskakis, Evi Fotopoulou, Eva Charalambidou, Anna Harchalaki, Dimitris Hourdakis), with unique art books, which highlight the way in which Cretan authors perceive the various boundaries -historical, mythological, sociological, psychological- through the prism that connects books and art over the centuries.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Is reading a pleasure for young people? Exploring the role of books in the life of Gen-Z

The presentation, for the first time in Greece, of the preliminary results of the research conducted in 2023 by the Department of Communication and Digital Media of the University of Western Macedonia on books, reading habits and attitudes of young people belonging to Generation Z. With Anastasia Yannacopoulou, assistant professor at the Department of Communication and Digital Media of the University of Western Macedonia, and Yannis Angelou, PhD in Communication and Media, research associate of the Department of Communication and Digital Media of the University of Western Macedonia.

Co-organized by the University of Western Macedonia – Department of Communication and Digital Media

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Loss and Mourning: Individual and Collective Traumas in Literature
Discussants: Voula Antoniadou (author), Maria Katsikandaraki (author and educator), Michalis Paterakis (poet), Katerina Stamatelatou (author), Andromachi Chourdaki (author). Moderated by: Anna Kallivretaki (author).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Radamanthis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Two Faces of Crete
On one hand, the urbanized, cosmopolitan life, and on the other, the evident and underground power of the “roots”, the violence of desolation. Authors Iakovos Anyfantakis and Giannis Nikoloudis discuss the two different Cretan worlds presented in their novels “Radiokasetofono” (“Radio Cassette Player”) and “Adeios topos” (“Empty Place”).

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

The levitation between the local and the global
The practical relationship of poetry with history and with current affairs. The relationship of poetry to other arts and forms of expression. With poets: Yannis Doukas, Haris Psarras, Orfeas Apergis, Lenia Safiropoulou, Krystalli Glyniadaki.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Literature at the Crossroads of Two Eras: Literary and Democratic Culture during the Dictatorship and the Metapolitefsi. Cultural Transitions.
Speakers: Andreas Apostolidis, author (“Romantica”) and director, Yannis Baskozos, journalist, director of the e-journal “O Anagnostis”, author (“I balanta ton anideon kai kalon” / “The ballad of the ignorant and good”), Nikolas A. Sevastakis, professor of Contemporary Political and Social Philosophy at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, author (“Katagogi i oi istories ton allon” / “Origin or the stories of others”), Niki Troullinou, author (“Odos Solonos” / “Solonos Street”).

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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Documentary “Latin Noir” by Andreas Apostolidis
A journey through Latin America, the life and work of the famous writers Paco Ignacio Taibo II from Mexico, Leonardo Padura from Cuba, Luis Sepulveda from Chile, Santiago Roncagliolo from Peru, Guillermo Orsi and Claudia Pineiro from Argentina (duration: 67′). From award-winning director and crime novelist Andreas Apostolidis.

Co-organized by Agra Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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Discussion about Latin Noir
A discussion on the documentary that explores how a generation of writers was driven to write noir mystery stories in an attempt to confront the brutal state violence, increased crime and ongoing human rights violations experienced in Latin America from the 1970s to the present day. With the documentary’s director and crime novelist Andreas Apostolidis, the Peruvian writer Santiago Roncaliolo and his translator in Greek, Kostas Athanasiou.

Co-organized by Agra Publishing / Kastaniotis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Pou zei o lykos?” (“Where does the wolf live?”) by Rhea Galanaki
The novel “Pou zei o lykos;” (“Where does the wolf live?”), with the dedication “For the groups of friends, from ’67 to ’74”, long out of print, is being reissued exactly fifty years after the iconic year of 1974, featuring an extensive afterword written today. Author Rhea Galanaki discusses with Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Philology, University of Crete.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Seferis kai Camus: Zitima fotos” ( “Seferis and Camus: A Question of Light”) by Yannis Kiourtsakis
Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Philology, University of Crete, discusses with the novelist and essayist Yannis Kiourtsakis about his new book and how two authors of the 20th century prophetically see the current crisis of European and global civilization.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Mystiki Ithaki” (“Secret Ithaca”) by Kostas Arkoudeas
Novelist Kostas Arkoudeas discusses his book “Mystiki Ithaki” (“Secret Ithaca”), the third part of his trilogy titled “I skotini pleura tis grafis” (“The Dark Side of Writing”) (“Chameno Nobel” (“Lost Nobel”), 2015, “Epikindynoi syggrapheis” (“Dangerous Writers”), 2019), with philologist and author Roula Vouraki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Theatrical reading: Ioanna Karystiani
The actress Io Asithianaki reads excerpts from the book “Psila grammata” (“The fine points”) by Ioanna Karystiani.

Organized by the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Theatrical reading: Kostas Akrivos and Nikos A. Mantis
The actress Io Asithianaki reads extracts from the books “Andromachi” (“Andromache”) and “Kithaironas” (“Kithairon”) by the authors Kostas Akrivos and Nikos A. Mantis, respectively.

Organized by the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Theatrical reading: Zyranna Zateli
The actress Io Asithianaki reads extracts from books by Greek author Zyranna Zateli.

Organized by the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

How do we talk about European literature in a changing Europe?
The authors Christos Asteriou, Lefteris Kalospyros and Yannis Doukas will be in conversation.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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3rd Greek-German translation workshop ViceVersa & “Vater und ich” (“Father and I”) by Dilek Güngör
Announcement of the results of the 3rd ViceVersa Greek-German translation workshop (23-30 June) by translators Michaela Prinzinger and Theo Votsos and the participants. Presentation of the book “Vater und ich” (“Father and I”) by the German journalist and writer of Turkish origin, Dilek Güngör,by her translator in Greek, Theo Votsos and the writer Christos Asteriou.

Organized by the German Translators’ Fund/DÜF-Toledo Programme, Commissioner for Culture and Media of the German Federal Government

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Exhibition “I’ve looked on beauty so much”
Constantine P. Cavafy, the poet, philosopher, historian, and hedonist, is reintroduced to us through the works of visual artist Dimitris Asteriou from Chania. Asteriou endeavors to unveil the poet’s multiple and complex identity by inviting him to assimilate the landscape, wander through the alleys, and poetically transpose the landmarks of the city of Chania.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“The Charm of Book Covers”
A discussion on the importance of book covers and the aesthetics of books in modern publishing. Participants: Christos Kourtoglou, graphic designer, Yannis Palavos, author, Kostas Spatharakis, publisher.

Moderation: Marilena Astrapellou, journalist.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Literature in Countries Experiencing Crisis
Cuban author Leonardo Padura converses with Argentine novelist Claudia Piñeiro and author Ieronymos Lykaris about the role and impact of literature in countries facing severe economic, humanitarian, and political crises. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou, translator.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA / Carnivora Publishing / Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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The depiction of racial discrimination in the literature of Paulo Scott & Louis-Philippe Dalembert
Brazilian novelist, poet, and short story writer Paulo Scott and Haitian novelist, poet, and essayist Louis-Philippe Dalembert (2024 Goncourt Prize for Poetry) discuss the depiction of racial discrimination and social injustice in their books “Marrom e Amarelo”/ “Phenotypes” and “Milwaukee Blues”, respectively. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou, translator.

CO-ORGANIZED BY:  Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA / Gutenberg Publishing / Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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The experience of translation and its importance for literature and language
Translators Kostas Athanasiou (Spanish), Rita Kolaiti (French), David Connolly (English), Katerina Schina (English) discuss the adventure of translation and its importance for the dissemination of literature and the dialogue between cultures. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou.

3rd Chania Book Ferstival 2024

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“Personas Decentes” / “Decent People” by Leonardo Padura
Author Leonardo Padura discusses his recent book with journalist Mikela Chartoulari and his translator Kostas Athanasiou.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“The night will be long” by Santiago Gamboa
Author Santiago Gamboa talks about his new book (published by Dioptra Publishing) with historian Lena Matsiori and translator Kostas Athanasiou.

Organized by the Greek-Ibero-American “Literatura en/em Atenas – LEA” Festival

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Water Over Stones” by Bernardo Atxaga
Basque author Bernardo Atxaga discusses his new book “Water Over Stones” with the Greek translator, Kostas Athanasiou.

Co-organized by Ekkremes Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Alla rysai imas apo tou ponirou (“Y líbranos del mal” / “And deliver us from evil”) by Santiago Roncagliolo
Peruvian writer Santiago Roncagliolo talks to the historian Lena Matsiori and his translator in Greek, Kostas Athanasiou, about his new novel “Alla rysai imas apo tou ponirou” (“Y líbranos del mal” / “And deliver us from evil”) .

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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Discussion about Latin Noir
A discussion on the documentary that explores how a generation of writers was driven to write noir mystery stories in an attempt to confront the brutal state violence, increased crime and ongoing human rights violations experienced in Latin America from the 1970s to the present day. With the documentary’s director and crime novelist Andreas Apostolidis, the Peruvian writer Santiago Roncagliolo and his translator in Greek, Kostas Athanasiou.

Co-organized by Agra Publishing / Kastaniotis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Water Over Stones” / “Etxeak eta hilobiak” by Bernardo Atxaga
The Basque writer Bernardo Atxaga talks about his new book “Water Over Stones” with his translator in Greek, Kostas Athanasiou.

Co-organized by Ekkremes Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Honorary event for Nikos Psilakis
An event dedicated to the work and memory of the great journalist, folklorist and writer Nikos Psilakis, with speakers Stavros Arnaoutakis, regional governor of Crete, Pantelis Boukalas, poet, essayist, translator and journalist, Thanasis Babanevas, representative of the Union of Journalists of Daily Newspapers of the Peloponnese, Epirus, and Islands and Maria Charalambaki, president of the Heraklion Prefecture Philologists’ Union. Moderation: Giorgos Patroudakis, journalist and photographer. The greeting will be delivered by Kyriakos Kortesis, President of the Union of Journalists of Daily Newspapers of the Peloponnese, Epirus, and Islands.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Karmanor Publishing

4th Chania Book Festrival 2025

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Concert with Dora Bakopoulou: “When poetry became a song”
The piano soloist Dora Bakopoulou with Angeliki Liouka on vocals present a musical programme dedicated to the lyrics of great poets (Elytis, Gatsos, Livaditis, Ritsos, Seferis, etc.) set to music by Mikis Theodorakis.

Giorgos Agorastakis introduces with a speech on the topic “Bibliography for Mikis Theodorakis.”

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Catch the Rabbit” by Lana Bastašić
Author Lana Bastašić discusses her recent book with journalist and writer Kostas Katsoularis.

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“The Greeks: A Global History” by Roderick Beaton
Professor Emeritus of King’s College London and Chairman of the Board of the British School of Athens, Roderick Beaton, discusses his recent book (Patakis Publishing) with Professor Emeritus of Modern Greek Literature of the University of Crete Alexis Politis.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Notturno Francese” / “Nighttime in France” by Fabio Stassi
Italian novelist, short story writer, and essayist Fabio Stassi converses with translator Dimitra Dotsi about his new book. Moderated by Kiriaki Beioglou, journalist and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Aposyndesi” (“Disconnection”) by Nikos Iatrou
The author Nikos Iatrou converses with the journalist and project advisor of the Chania Book Festival, Kiriaki Beioglou, about his new novel (Iolkos Publishing), a story of desire, loss, and pain of two individuals who undergo a double shock upon learning simultaneously about the death of their partners and their secret relationship.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Mama, ego den eimai ego” (“Mom, I am not me”) by Kostas Ganotis & “Arrostos se taxidi” (“Sick on a journey”) by Panagiotis Evangelidis
The writer, translator and director Panagiotis Evangelidis (Polychromos Planitis Publishing) discusses with the songwriter and writer Kostas Ganotis (Livanis Publishing) about their artistic and literary multidimensional work, which illuminates the worlds of people who live far from social norms and conventions. Moderated by journalist and project advisor of the Chania Book Festival, Kiriaki Beioglou.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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European Literature: Past, Present, Future
The award-winning Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov (International Booker Prize 2023, Strega European Prize 2021, National Literary Award Bulgarian Novel of the Year 2013, etc.) discusses with journalist Kiriaki Beioglou. Introduced by Nikos Argyris, editor.

Co-organized by Ikaros Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Ena skoteino domatio 1967-1974” (“A Dark Room 1967-1974”) by Alexis Papahelas
The Executive editor of the Greek newspaper “Kathimerini” and writer Alexis Papahelas discusses his recent book (published by Metaixmio Publishing) with the journalist Stavros Theodorakis. Introduced by the journalist Kiriaki Beioglou.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“I’m not going anywhere” by Rumena Bužarovska
Journalist Kiyriaki Beioglou discusses with the author Rumena Bužarovska at the first presentation of her new collection of short stories, recently published by Gutenberg.

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“To chroniko enos dyslektikou” (“The Chronicle of a Dyslexic”) by Yannis Paschus
Author Yannis Paschos discusses his recent book, published by Perispomeni Publishing, with journalist Kiriaki Beioglou.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Pes tis” (“Tell her”) by Christos Oikonomou
Author Christos Oikonomou engages in a discussion about his latest book, published by Polis Publishing, with journalist Kiriaki Beioglou.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Sympligades genethlion” (“Clashing Birthday”) and Piso apo ta thola tzamia (“Behind the fogged windows”) by Dimitris Katalifos
The actor and poet Dimitris Katalifos discusses with journalist Kiriaki Beioglou how his two poetry collections were born, and reads his own poems and those of his favorite poets who have defined him.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Apofloiosi kai akonisma. O poiitis glyptis: i elegeia stis “Satires” tou K.G. Karyotaki” (“Peeling and sharpening. The poet sculptor: the elegy in K.G. Karyotakis’s “Satires”) by Dimitris Angelatos
The Professor of Modern Greek Literature and Literary Theory Dimitris Angelatos discusses his new book with the journalist Kiriaki Beioglou. 

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Orati san aorati” (“Visible as if invisible”) by Zyranna Zateli
The author Zyranna Zateli talks to the journalist Kiriaki Beioglou on the occasion of the publication of her new novel.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“I via tis apotychias” (“The violence of failure”) by Petros Markaris

Author Petros Markaris discusses with journalist Grigoris Bekos about his new book,  which is being presented for the first time at the Chania Book Festival in a special collector’s edition exclusively for festival visitors.

Co-organized by Keimena Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Grand Hotel Europa” by Ilja Leonard Pfeijffer
The award-winning Dutch writer Ilja Leonard Pfeijffer discusses with journalist Grigoris Bekos, delving into the multiple contradictions of European identity, focusing on an old hotel struggling to balance between the present and the past.

Co-organised by Ikaros Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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Authors Kostas Akrivos and Nikos A. Mantis discuss their books “Andromachi” (“Andromache”) and “Kithaironas” (“Kithairon”), respectively. Moderator: Grigoris Bekos, journalist.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing & Metaixmio Publishing.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Ti menei apo ti nychta” (“What remains of the night”) by Ersi Sotiropoulos

Author Ersi Sotiropoulos discusses her book with journalist Grigoris Bekos.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“L’inventeur” / “The Inventor” by Miguel Bonnefoy
The French author of Venezuelan descent, Miguel Bonnefoy, who has been translated into twenty languages, discusses his book “L’inventeur” / “The Inventor” with author, translator, and publisher Panagiotis Kehagias. The book was released recently in Greek.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Stereoma Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Honorary event for Nikos Psilakis
An event dedicated to the work and memory of the great journalist, folklorist and writer Nikos Psilakis, with speakers Stavros Arnaoutakis, regional governor of Crete, Pantelis Boukalas, poet, essayist, translator and journalist, Thanasis Babanevas, representative of the Union of Journalists of Daily Newspapers of the Peloponnese, Epirus, and Islands and Maria Charalambaki, president of the Heraklion Prefecture Philologists’ Union. Moderation: Giorgos Patroudakis, journalist and photographer. The greeting will be delivered by Kyriakos Kortesis, President of the Union of Journalists of Daily Newspapers of the Peloponnese, Epirus, and Islands.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Karmanor Publishing

4th Chania Book Festrival 2025

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The poetry of Dionysios Solomos and the Greek Revolution of 1821

The writer, journalist, and folk song scholar Pantelis Boukalas discusses our national poet, Dionysios Solomos, who “baptized” in the Greek Revolution of 1821. Observing the Revolution fervently from his homeland, Zakynthos, where refugees from Messolonghi and Moria sought refuge, Solomos was acclaimed as a warrior of literature, not of chariots. Through the diverse forms of his poetry and prose, he stood among the forefront figures of his century, with a pan-European influence, and established the “self-educated” language of the people as the remedy for the art of speech.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“I mnimi tou pagou” (“The memory of ice”) by Ioanna Bourazopoulou
Author Ioanna Bourazopoulou (Athens Academy Award 2015) talks with journalist Mikela Chartoulari on the occasion of the completion of her novel trilogy “O drakos tis Prespas” (“The Dragon of Prespa”).

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania book Festival 2024

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Literary genres in dialogue: The play of writing and boundaries in the field of literature
Authors Ioanna Bourazopoulou, Pela Soultatou and Niki Troullinou discuss how elements such as fiction, satire, poetry and essays are mixed in contemporary literature and whether there are borders in literature, literally and figuratively. Moderation: Spyros Giannaras, author, translator.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“I’m not going anywhere” by Rumena Bužarovska
Journalist Kyriaki Beioglou discusses with the author Rumena Bužarovska at the first presentation of her new collection of short stories, recently published by Gutenberg.

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Irthan me mia klimatoverga ap’ tin Kriti. Poiimata” (“They came with a vine from Crete. Poems”) by Cevat Çapan
The two daughters of the Turkish Cretan poet and academic Cevat Çapan, Leylâ Çapan and Nigar Çapan, read a text written by Cevat especially for the event, while the Turkish Cretan poet Ayșe Lahur Kirtunç and the translator Anthi Karra speak about his work. Moderator: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director, publisher.

Co-organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Nikos Gkatsos. Doste mou mia taftotita, na thymitho poios eimai” (“Nikos Gatsos. Give me an identity, so I can remember who I am”) by Stavros G. Kartsonakis
First presentation of the book “Nikos Gkatsos. Doste mou mia taftotita, na thymitho poios eimai (Poiisi kai stichourgiki 1931-1991)” (“Nikos Gatsos. Give me an identity, so I can remember who I am”) (Poetry and lyrics 1931-1991)”). The author Stavros G. Kartsonakis discusses with the writer Agathi Dimitrouka and the professor of Modern Greek Literature at the University of Palermo, Maria Caracauzi, about the book, which contains important – known and unknown – research and judgments about the poet, his youthful literary steps of the first period, unpublished notes, radio broadcasts and chronicles of the creation of his important works.

Co-organized by Metronomos Publishing.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Europe in the Age of Conquests: from Philip of Macedonia to Hadrian the Philhellene
Speaker: Angelos Chaniotis, Professor of Ancient History and Classical Studies at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton University, corresponding member of the Academy of Athens, collaborator of the New York University excavations in Crete, author (“Age of Conquests”).

Co-organized by Crete University Press

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Honorary event for Nikos Psilakis
An event dedicated to the work and memory of the great journalist, folklorist and writer Nikos Psilakis, with speakers Stavros Arnaoutakis, regional governor of Crete, Pantelis Boukalas, poet, essayist, translator and journalist, Thanasis Babanevas, representative of the Union of Journalists of Daily Newspapers of the Peloponnese, Epirus, and Islands and Maria Charalambaki, president of the Heraklion Prefecture Philologists’ Union. Moderation: Giorgos Patroudakis, journalist and photographer. The greeting will be delivered by Kyriakos Kortesis, President of the Union of Journalists of Daily Newspapers of the Peloponnese, Epirus, and Islands.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Karmanor Publishing

4th Chania Book Festrival 2025

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“Eirini, polemos, politika, synomoysies: Oi Ellines axiomatikoi (1935-1945)” (“Peace, War, Politics, Conspiracies: The Greek Officers (1935-1945)”) by Tasos Sakellaropoulos
Historian and head of the historical archives at the Benaki Museum, Tasos Sakellaropoulos, discusses his new book with historian and political analysis advisor Giannis Charalampidis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Oi dosilogoi” (“The Collaborationists”) by Menelaos Charalampidis
The historian Menelaos Charalampidis, Founder of Athens History Walks, which conducts historical tours in Athens for the period of the Occupation and the Dekemvriana, talks about his book (Alexandria Publishing), in which, through the study of archives published for the first time, he describes the activities of those who collaborated, examines the reasons and mechanisms of the development of the phenomenon of collaboration with the occupier, as it manifested itself in the prefecture of Attica, as well as the political and economic conditions that favoured its emergence. Introduced by Manolis Pimplis, the Chania Book Festival director.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

A discussion on the book “Politiki tou politismou” (“The Politics of Culture”) by Myrsini Zorba
Dr. Maria Andreadaki Vlazaki, Archaeologist and former General Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, journalist Mikela Chartoulari, and author and researcher Pavlina Marvin discuss the release of the revised edition of Myrsini Zorba’s book “Politiki tou politismou” (“The Politics of Culture”).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Epicheirisi ‘Nostos’” (“Operation ‘Nostos’”) by Nikolas Zirganos
Investigative journalist and screenwriter Nikolas Zirganos, known for his research on the international antiquities smuggling network, discusses his new book with Maria Andreadaki-Vlazaki, PhD in Archaeology and former General Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, and journalist Mikela Chartoulari.

Co-organized by Topos Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Dika mas paidia” (“Our children”) by Sofia Nikolaidou
Author Sofia Nikolaidou talks to journalist Mikela Chartoulari about her new novel, a story about a rap band, about dreams that take revenge, about children saved by music.

Co-organized by Metaixmio Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“I mnimi tou pagou” (“The memory of ice”) by Ioanna Bourazopoulou
Author Ioanna Bourazopoulou (Athens Academy Award 2015) talks with journalist Mikela Chartoulari on the occasion of the completion of her novel trilogy “O drakos tis Prespas” (“The Dragon of Prespa”).

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Personas Decentes” / “Decent People” by Leonardo Padura
Author Leonardo Padura discusses his recent book with journalist Mikela Chartoulari and his translator Kostas Athanasiou.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Na eicha, leei, mia trompeta” (“If only I had a trumpet”) by Maro Douka
The writer Maro Douka talks to the journalist Mikela Chartoulari regarding her new novel “Na eicha, leei, mia trompeta” (“If only I had a trumpet”).

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

!st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“To kinima tis aftoktonias” (“The Suicide Movement”) by Petros Markaris
The renowned Greek writer Petros Markaris discusses with the journalist Mikela Chartoulari about his new novel.

Co-organized by Keimena Publishing

!st Chania Book Festival 2022

“I symfiliosi” (“The Reconciliation”) by Dimitris Chatzikonstantinou

Author Dimitris Hatzikonstantinou discusses with the philologist and President of the Centre of Cretan Literature, Kostas Moutzouris, about his new book. Excerpts will be read by the philologist Maria Patrelaki.
Co-organized by Metaixmio Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

«Amaltheia – To koritsi me ta kerata» (“Amalthea – The Girl with the Horns”) by Alexandros Chatzipanagiotis
Through a novel set in the village of Sfentyli in 1962, the author Alexandros Chatzipanagiotis, also a film director and screenwriter, highlights the history and mythology, the customs and traditions, the legends and folklore of Crete.

Co-organised by Mitos Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Libraries and Democracy

Speakers: Paraskevi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: “Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: Dormitories of knowledge, democracy, culture” / Dr Anthi Katsirikou, President of the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists, Head of the Library of the University of Piraeus: “A brief theoretical introduction” / Maria Chetzaki and Katerina Voutiraki, Librarian and Head of the Library & Information Centre of the Hellenic Mediterranean University: “Libraries and services for students with print disabilities (visually impaired)” / Maria Daoudaki, Head of Department at the Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and the Open Access movement” / Dr Manolis Koukourakis, Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and cultural resources” / Irini Dragasaki: Koundourios Public Library of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos: “Cultural events for reading culture”.

Co-organised by the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Reinventing love. How patriarchy sabotages heterosexual relationships” by Mona Chollet
The journalist and essayist Mona Chollet discusses with the author Lena Divani about her new book (Stereoma Publishing) which won the European Essay Prize for 2022.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

Libraries and Democracy
Speakers: Paraskevi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: “Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: Dormitories of knowledge, democracy, culture” / Dr Anthi Katsirikou, President of the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists, Head of the Library of the University of Piraeus: “A brief theoretical introduction” / Maria Chetzaki and Katerina Voutiraki, Librarian and Head of the Library & Information Centre of the Hellenic Mediterranean University: “Libraries and services for students with print disabilities (visually impaired)” / Maria Daoudaki, Head of Department at the Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and the Open Access movement” / Dr Manolis Koukourakis, Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and cultural resources” / Irini Dragasaki: Koundourios Public Library of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos: “Cultural events for reading culture”.

Co-organised by the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Loss and Mourning: Individual and Collective Traumas in Literature
Discussants: Voula Antoniadou (author), Maria Katsikandaraki (author and educator), Michalis Paterakis (poet), Katerina Stamatelatou (author), Andromachi Chourdaki (author). Moderated by: Anna Kallivretaki (author).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Radamanthis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Afto ekanes panta” (“You’ve Always Done This”) by Nikos Iatrou & “Sarah en Berlin” by Ismini Kariotaki
The novelists Nikos Iatrou and Ismini Kariotaki discuss parenthood, on the occasion of their two recent books, “Afto ekanes panta” (“You’ve Always Done This”) and “Sarah en Berlin”, respectively. Moderation: Alexandra Christakaki, journalist.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing / Potamos Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Telesi” (“Telesis”) by Fotis Dousos

Author Fotis Dousos talks to journalist Alexandra Christakaki about his book (Nisos Publishing), a psychological thriller about the forces of creation and destruction that we hide inside us.

3rd Chania BookFEstival 2024

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“The Netleti” by Joelle Lopinot
Joelle Lopinot talks with journalist Alexandra Christakaki about her book, which reveals unknown aspects of the history of Crete, as told to the author by the residents of the village Manoliopoulo in the inland of the Platanias Municipality of Chania. With the support of the Hellenic-French Association of Chania.

Co-organized by Minoas Publishing

3rd Chania BookFEstival 2024

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“My Policeman” by Bethan Roberts
British author Bethan Roberts discusses her recent book (published by Enastron Publishing) with the journalist Alexandra Christakaki.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Routes and identities
The writer, president of the Hellenic Authors’ Society, Iosif Ventouras talks to the journalist Alexandra Christakaki about his literary and poetic work, how it was influenced by his Jewish identity, the Jewish community of Chania where he was born, and the role of the Hellenic Authors’ Society in Greek literature and its prospects.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“O teleftaios fylakas” (“The Last Guardian”) by Dimitris Oikonomou
The writer Dimitris Oikonomou talks to the journalist Alexandra Christakaki on the occasion of his latest novel.

Co-organized by Ikaros Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Oneireftika ti Dido” (“I dreamed of Dido”) by Lena Divani
The historian and author Lena Divani talks to the journalist Alexandra Christakaki about her new book, a hybrid kind of biography of Dido Sotiriou.

Co-organized by Pataki Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Vathy to skotadi prin tin avgi” (“Deep darkness before dawn”) by Eleni Priovolou & “Mavro flamingko” (“Black Flamingo”) by Stavros Christodoulou
Disconnected from time and place. Heroes and anti-heroes in the dying world and the world to come. Authors Eleni Priovolou and Stavros Christodoulou talk about their novels.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“The Challenge of Adapting Literary Works to Cinema”
Cuban screenwriter, journalist, and documentary filmmaker Lucia López Coll discusses the adaptation of literary works to film with Adriana Martinez, director of the LEA Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“John Craxton: A Life of Gifts” by Ian Collins
Author Ian Collins presents his book on the life and work of the philhellene painter John Craxton.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

The experience of translation and its importance for literature and language
Translators Kostas Athanasiou (Spanish), Rita Kolaiti (French), David Connolly (English), Katerina Schina (English) discuss the adventure of translation and its importance for the dissemination of literature and the dialogue between cultures. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou.

3rd Chania Book Ferstival 2024

“La Parte Sbagliata” / “The Wrong Side” by Davide Coppo
Italian author and journalist Davide Coppo discusses his latest book “La Parte Sbagliata” / “The Wrong Side” with translator Dimitra Dotsi.

Co-organized by: Dioptra Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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The Normalization of the Far Right in the West
A discussion on the rise, normalization, and dynamics of the far right in the contemporary Western world. Participants include Davide Coppo, Italian author and journalist, Nikos A. Alivizatos, emeritus professor of Constitutional Law at the Law School of the University of Athens, Stavros Zoumboulakis, president of the Board of Trustees of the National Library of Greece, Makis Malafekas, author, and Louis-Philippe Dalembert, Haitian author. Moderated by Manolis Pimplis, journalist and director of the Chania Book Festival.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Book Festivals in the Modern World
Discussion on the challenges, the impact of international book festivals and their networking, will be held by: Adriana Martinez from Colombia, director of the LEA Festival; Claudia Neira from Nicaragua, director of the Centroamérica Cuenta Festival; Pilar Reyes, literary director of Penguin Random House; Mexican author and essayist Jorge Volpi; Spanish journalist Juan Cruz Ruíz, founding member of El Pais newspaper, author, and literary critic; and Manolis Pimplis, Chania Book Festival director.

Co-organized by the Greek Ibero-American LEA Festival

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Within the circle” by Arne Dahl
Renowned Swedish crime writer Arne Dahl discusses with journalist Nikos Kourmoulis about his book “Within a circle”, his relationship with the debate on environmental destruction and the notorious NOVA team – a group of eccentric police officers who take on the most unusual cases.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaixmio Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

The depiction of racial discrimination in the literature of Paulo Scott & Louis-Philippe Dalembert
Brazilian novelist, poet, and short story writer Paulo Scott and Haitian novelist, poet, and essayist Louis-Philippe Dalembert (2024 Goncourt Prize for Poetry) discuss the depiction of racial discrimination and social injustice in their books “Marrom e Amarelo”/ “Phenotypes” and “Milwaukee Blues”, respectively. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou, translator.

CO-ORGANIZED BY:  Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA / Gutenberg Publishing / Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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The Normalization of the Far Right in the West
A discussion on the rise, normalization, and dynamics of the far right in the contemporary Western world. Participants include Davide Coppo, Italian author and journalist, Nikos A. Alivizatos, emeritus professor of Constitutional Law at the Law School of the University of Athens, Stavros Zoumboulakis, president of the Board of Trustees of the National Library of Greece, Makis Malafekas, author, and Louis-Philippe Dalembert, Haitian author. Moderated by Manolis Pimplis, journalist and director of the Chania Book Festival.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Police literature and war
The members of the Hellenic Club of Police Literature Writers (ELSAL) Vassilis Danellis, Nina Kouletaki and Lefteris Giannakoudakis discuss the depiction of war in police literature, both Greek and foreign.

Organised by the Greek Club of Crime Writers (ELSAL)

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Libraries and Democracy
Speakers: Paraskevi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: “Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: Dormitories of knowledge, democracy, culture” / Dr Anthi Katsirikou, President of the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists, Head of the Library of the University of Piraeus: “A brief theoretical introduction” / Maria Chetzaki and Katerina Voutiraki, Librarian and Head of the Library & Information Centre of the Hellenic Mediterranean University: “Libraries and services for students with print disabilities (visually impaired)” / Maria Daoudaki, Head of Department at the Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and the Open Access movement” / Dr Manolis Koukourakis, Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and cultural resources” / Irini Dragasaki: Koundourios Public Library of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos: “Cultural events for reading culture”.

Co-organised by the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Tribute to Manolis Anagnostakis: 100 years since his birth
 Aspects of his work and life through two new publications

“Vivliografia Manoli Anagnostaki (1941-2023)” (“Bibliography of Manolis Anagnostakis (1941-2023)”) by bibliographer and critic Dimitris Daskalopoulos, as well as the book “Pragmatologika Scholia sto Ergo tou Manoli Anagnostaki” (“Pragmatic Comments on the Work of Manolis Anagnostakis”) by philologist Miltiadis D. Polyviou, are presented by Thaleia Ieronymaki, Assistant Professor of Modern Greek Philology at the University of Patras, and Lizzie Tsirimokou, Emerita Professor of General and Comparative Literature at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

Moderation: Emmi Papavasileiou, President of the Friends of Poet Manolis Anagnostakis Club.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Grafo poimata aneta kai anapaftika gia oles tis logokrisies” (“I Write Poems Comfortably and Relaxedly for All Censorships”)
Participants: Dimitris Daskalopoulos, Thaleia Ieronymaki, Miltiadis D. Polyviou, Lizzie Tsirimokou, Pantelis Boukalas, poet, essayist, translator, and journalist, discuss the significant legacy of the work of Manolis Anagnostakis.

Moderation: Manolis Pimplis, journalist and director of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Friends of Poet Manolis Anagnostakis Club / Patakis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Antres choris Antres” (“Men without Men”) by Nikos Davvetas
Nikos Davvetas discusses his book with the author Yannis Baskozos.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Lipotaktes” (“Deserters”) by Giannis Theodorakis

Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor of Culture of the Municipality of Chania, Antonis Diamantis, director, actor, and Kostas Moutzouris, philologist, discuss about Giannis Theodorakis‘ book (1932-1996), “Lipotaktes” (“Deserters”) (Metronomos Publishing). Poems will be recited by actors Spyros Pritsas and Evi Manavaki. Moderation: Ioanna Karamali, translator, poet.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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The Everyday Man in Literature and History
The writers Éric Vuillard, Maro Doukas, Michalis Modinos and the Assistant Professor of Modern Greek Literature at the University of Crete, Yannis Dimitrakakis, discuss the use of History in literature, how literature turns the lens towards the everyday person, whether he is a victim of History or becomes its driving force.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Nikos Gkatsos. Doste mou mia taftotita, na thymitho poios eimai” (“Nikos Gatsos. Give me an identity, so I can remember who I am”) by Stavros G. Kartsonakis
First presentation of the book “Nikos Gkatsos. Doste mou mia taftotita, na thymitho poios eimai (Poiisi kai stichourgiki 1931-1991)” (“Nikos Gatsos. Give me an identity, so I can remember who I am”) (Poetry and lyrics 1931-1991)”). The author discusses with the writer Agathi Dimitrouka and the professor of Modern Greek Literature at the University of Palermo, Maria Caracauzi, about the book, which contains important – known and unknown – research and judgments about the poet, his youthful literary steps of the first period, unpublished notes, radio broadcasts and chronicles of the creation of his important works.

Co-organized by Metronomos Editions

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

European Literature and R-evolution
Antigoni Vlavianou, Associate Professor of History of European Literature (Hellenic Academy of Sciences) and Titika Dimitroulia, Professor of Theory and Practice in Translation (University of Athens), discuss about: “European Literature and the R-evolution”, commenting on it in the context of an individual or collective attempt to distance and release literary creation towards a political, ethical and aesthetic crisis. They discuss European literary/artistic movements and authors who opposed the established order with bold disbelief, caustic irony and a more or less radical theory. Moderated by Poli Krimnioti, journalist.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

On the road to a new homeland
The Cypriot author of the novel «Ti einai enas kampos” (“What is a plain”), Nasia Dionysiou and the author of Chania origin of the novel “Patriot”, Michalis Malandrakis discuss the adventures of uprooted people they describe in their books, whether they move in groups as long-suffering refugees or individually as migrants in search of a better fate or a dream.

Co-organized by Polis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Gia tin kardia kai to sykoti tou” (“For his heart and liver”) by Lena Divani
The wife, the mistress, and the mother of a clinically dead man fight over who is entitled to give (or refuse to give) his organs for transplantation. The author Lena Divani talks about her new novel with Zoe Georgoula, journalist, Project Organization & Production Manager of the Chania Book Festival.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Ta Monopatia mou stin Kriti: Apokoronas” (“My Paths in Crete: Apokoronas”)

Dimitris Michelogiannis, Special Advisor to the Regional Governor of Crete, discusses with author Lena Divani and Fivos Tsaravopoulos, Founder of the SCE Paths of Greece, for the new publication of the Region of Crete.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Ergazomeno agori” (“Working Boy”) by Lena Divani
Αuthor and historian Lena Divani introduces her most recent book, which has been nominated for the European Library’s Readers of Europe 2023 shortlist.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Reinventing love. How patriarchy sabotages heterosexual relationships” by Mona Chollet
The journalist and essayist Mona Chollet discusses with the author Lena Divani about her new book (Stereoma Publishing) which won the European Essay Prize for 2022.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Michael Llewellyn Smith: “Crete in my life”
Address by the esteemed British historian, diplomat, and traveler Michael Lewellin Smith on the impact of Crete in shaping his life and work. The introduction will be delivered by Dimitris Michelogiannis, a lawyer and special adviser to the Region of Crete. Following the lecture, author and historian Lena Divani will engage in a discussion with Michael Lewellin Smith.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Cheiropoiiti Kriti (“Handmade Crete”) by Isabella Zampetaki
Presentation of the book “Cheiropoiiti Kriti (“Handmade Crete”) by the writer and journalist Isabella Zampetaki and the writer and historian Lena Divani.

Organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing / With the support of Crete Region

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Oneireftika ti Dido” (“I dreamed of Dido”) by Lena Divani
The historian and author Lena Divani talks to the journalist Alexandra Christakaki about her new book, a hybrid kind of biography of Dido Sotiriou.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Notturno Francese” / “Nighttime in France” by Fabio Stassi
Italian novelist, short story writer, and essayist Fabio Stassi converses with translator Dimitra Dotsi about his new book. Moderated by Kiriaki Beioglou, journalist and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Na eicha, leei, mia trompeta” (“If only I had a trumpet”) by Maro Douka
The writer Maro Douka talks to the journalist Mikela Chartoulari regarding her new novel “Na eicha, leei, mia trompeta” (“If only I had a trumpet”).

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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Overcoming the limits of the Occupation
The editor of the second edition of Stavros Vlontakis‘ book “I Ochyra Thesis Kritis” (“The Fortress of Crete”), George Vlontakis, the authors Maro Douka, Niki Troullinou and the historian Spyros Daountakis discuss the presence of the German occupation army in Chania after their withdrawal from the rest of Greece.

Co-organized by Antigone Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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The Everyday Man in Literature and History
The writers Éric Vuillard, Maro Douka, Michalis Modinos and the Assistant Professor of Modern Greek Literature at the University of Crete, Yannis Dimitrakakis, discuss the use of History in literature, how literature turns the lens towards the everyday person, whether he is a victim of History or becomes its driving force.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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The levitation between the local and the global
The practical relationship of poetry with history and with current affairs. The relationship of poetry to other arts and forms of expression. With poets: Yannis Doukas, Haris Psarras, Orpheas Apergis, Lenia Zafeiropoulou, Krystallis Glyniadakis.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“To tyflo gourouni sti Defteri odo” (“The Blind Pig on Second Avenue”) by Soti Triantafyllou
Author Soti Triantafyllou discusses her new book with journalist Dimitris Doulgeridis.

Co-organized by: Patakis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Déserter” (“Deserting”) by Mathias Énard
The multi-award-winning (Goncourt Prize 2015, shortlisted for the Man Booker International Prize 2017, etc.) French author Mathias Énard talks about his new novel with journalist Dimitris Doulgeridis. With the support of the Hellenic-French Association of Chania.

Co-organized by the French Institute of Greece / Stereoma Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Telesi” (“Telesis”) by Fotis Dousos
Author Fotis Dousos talks to journalist Alexandra Christakaki about his book (Nisos Publishing), a psychological thriller about the forces of creation and destruction that we hide inside us.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Libraries and Democracy
Speakers: Paraskevi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: “Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: Dormitories of knowledge, democracy, culture” / Dr Anthi Katsirikou, President of the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists, Head of the Library of the University of Piraeus: “A brief theoretical introduction” / Maria Chetzaki and Katerina Voutiraki, Librarian and Head of the Library & Information Centre of the Hellenic Mediterranean University: “Libraries and services for students with print disabilities (visually impaired)” / Maria Daoudaki, Head of Department at the Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and the Open Access movement” / Dr Manolis Koukourakis, Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and cultural resources” / Irini Dragasaki: Koundourios Public Library of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos: “Cultural events for reading culture”.

Co-organised by the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Oi exisoseis” (“The Equations”) by Vassilios F. Drolias
Astrophysicist and author Vassilios Drolias discusses with Vassilis Kimoulis, Press Office and Communication Manager of the Chania Book Festival, about his new hybrid novel on modern physics and science in general.

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“I Odysseia pou mas kryvoun” (“The Odyssey they hide us”) by Polychronis Koutsakis
The writer Polychronis Koutsakis talks about his new book (Patakis Publishing) with the writer Minos Efstathiadis and they discuss the challenges of translating Greek literature abroad.

Co-organised by Patakis Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

The publishing landscape: crises and prospects
The editors Foivos Vlachos (Keimena Publishing), George H. Efstathiou and Katerina Thanopoulou (Aparsis Publishing) and Thanasis Sylivos (Metronomos Publishing) discuss with journalist Poly Krimnioti about the publishing landscape during the period of repeated crises and the prospects of small and medium-sized publishing houses in the near future.

Co-organized by Keimena Publishing / Aparsis Publishing / Metronomos Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Déserter” (“Deserting”) by Mathias Énard
The multi-award-winning (Goncourt Prize 2015, shortlisted for the Man Booker International Prize 2017, etc.) French author Mathias Énard talks about his new novel with journalist Dimitris Doulgeridis. With the support of the Hellenic-French Association of Chania.

Co-organized by the French Institute of Greece / Stereoma Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Our share of night” by Mariana Enríquez
Argentinian author Mariana Enríquez discusses with Pilar Tena, Spanish director of the Cervantes Institute in Athens, about her new book, a novel where supernatural horror intersects with very real fears.

Co-organized by the Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA / Patakis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Mama, ego den eimai ego” (“Mom, I am not me”) by Kostas Ganotis & “Arrostos se taxidi” (“Sick on a journey”) by Panagiotis Evangelidis
The writer, translator and director Panagiotis Evangelidis (Polychromos Planitis Publishing) discusses with the songwriter and writer Kostas Ganotis (Livanis Publishing) about their artistic and literary multidimensional work, which illuminates the worlds of people who live far from social norms and conventions. Moderated by journalist and project advisor of the Chania Book Festival, Kiriaki Beioglou.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Constantine: The story of a promise, a curse and a return…
When folk songs become the inspiration for fairy tales. The “fairy-tale” version of the folk song “The Dead Brother”, through its transfer to the oral literature of the people. Synthetic narration and fictional narrative based on ten variants from all over Greece by the Storytellers of the National Theatre of Greece (Poetry-lyrics: Dimitris Fileles, setting-song: Filippos Plakias, narration: Dimitris V. Prusalis).

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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Legends about the Fall of Constantinople
Folk traditions and legends, focusing on the Hagia Sophia before, during and after the Fall of Constantinople, by the Storytellers of the National Theatre of Greece (Poetry-lyrics: Dimitris Fileles, setting-song: Philippos Plakias, narration: Dimitris V. Prousalis).

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

The Concept of Self
Three experiential self-esteem workshops for children aged 12-17, each lasting thirty minutes, will run simultaneously at three points of the Mediterranean Architecture Center (Grand Arsenal). Curated by educator, Chania Mayor’s educational advisor, and author Anna Nebavlaki (“Ftou Kai Vgaino” / “Ready or not, here I come!”, Kaleidoscope Publishing), along with local and other artists and scientists, the workshops will operate in a circular manner, so all children will rotate through each one: 1st Workshop: “Food for Thought” (Konstantinos V. Proimos, Assistant Professor of History, Theory, and Criticism of Architecture at the University of Patras), 2nd Workshop: “Something Precious” (Konstantinos Fischer, Visual Artist), 3rd Workshop: “Lights, Camera, Action Chania” (Nikos Kampianakis, Photographer).

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“El año en que nació el demonio” (“The Year the Demon Was Born”) by Santiago Roncagliolo & “Natural History: a Novel” by Carlos Fonseca
Peruvian author Santiago Roncagliolo, one of the most acclaimed and beloved novelists in Latin America, discusses with the renowned Costa Rican writer and professor at Cambridge University, Carlos Fonseca. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou, translator.

Co-organized by the Greek Ibero-American LEA Festival / Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“A Musical Bridge Between Greece and Turkey,” Honoring Zülfü Livaneli
A special musical evening dedicated to the deep friendship and artistic meeting of two iconic creators: Mikis Theodorakis and Zülfü Livaneli. The performance will be by Ioanna Forti, with Heraklis Zakkas on bouzouki, Alexandros Kapsokavadis on guitar, and Achilleas Wastor on piano, who is also responsible for the artistic direction of the program. Greetings will be delivered by Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor for Culture of Chania, and Giorgos Agorastakis, president of the Pan-Cretan Association of Mikis Theodorakis Friends.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Andreas” by Hugo von Hofmannsthal
Presentation of the only and most extensive narrative prose work by Austrian author Hugo von Hofmannsthal, recently published for the first time in Greece by Radamanthys Publishing of Chania. Speakers: Theocharis Fragkioudakis, historical researcher, author, educator; Katerina Frangaki, poet, author; Maria Fourountzoglou, translator of the book, educator; Christos Tsantis, author, mental health counselor, director of Radamanthys Publishing.

Co-organized by Radamanthys Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Andreas” by Hugo von Hofmannsthal
Presentation of the only and most extensive narrative prose work by Austrian author Hugo von Hofmannsthal, recently published for the first time in Greece by Radamanthys Publishing of Chania. Speakers: Theocharis Fragkioudakis, historical researcher, author, educator; Katerina Frangaki, poet, author; Maria Fourountzoglou, translator of the book, educator; Christos Tsantis, author, mental health counselor, director of Radamanthys Publishing.

Co-organized by Radamanthys Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival2024

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“Imerologio Atomikon, En Smyrni 1918-1919” (“Personal Diary, In Smyrna 1918-1919”) by Leonidas Kakaroglou
The writer and poet Leonidas Kakaroglou discusses with Christos Tsantis, writer, head of Radamanthis Publishing, Theocharis I. Fragkioudakis, writer, historical researcher, Sifis Michelogiannis, writer, member of the steering committee of the International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis.

ORGANIZATION: Radamanthis Publishing / International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

The decisive importance of nature in the work of Antonio Moresco
Renowned Italian author Antonio Moresco discusses the relationship between humans and nature with his translator Maria Fragouli, focusing on his books “The Song of the Trees” / “Il Canto degli Alberi” and “The Little Light / La Lucina”.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Andreas” by Hugo von Hofmannsthal
Presentation of the only and most extensive narrative prose work by Austrian author Hugo von Hofmannsthal, recently published for the first time in Greece by Radamanthys Publishing of Chania. Speakers: Theocharis Fragkioudakis, historical researcher, author, educator; Katerina Frangaki, poet, author; Maria Fourountzoglou, translator of the book, educator; Christos Tsantis, author, mental health counselor, director of Radamanthys Publishing.

Co-organized by Radamanthys Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Athoryva to ‘strone” (“Silently, He Spread It”) by Marinella Vlachaki
Author Marinella Vlachaki discusses her book “Athoryva to ‘strone” (“Silently, He Spread It”), which includes short stories and theatrical monologues written between 2006 and 2022, with director-actor Kostis Kapelonis and Associate Professor of Modern Greek Philology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Anastasia Markomichelaki.

Moderation: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Director of the Chania Film Festival, publisher.

Co-organized by: Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Mikis Theodorakis: To chroniko mias epanastasis 1960-1967. I istoria tis genias tou 1-1-4 kai ton “Lamprakidon” (“Mikis Theodorakis: The Chronicle of a Revolution 1960-1967. The Story of the 1-1-4 Generation and the ‘Lamprakides’”) by Fontas Ladis
For the book by author Fontas Ladis, Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Director of the Chania Film Festival and Board Member of the Pan-Cretan Association of Mikis Theodorakis’ Friends, and Thanasis Sylivos, publisher, will discuss the work. The author will intervene via a pre-recorded message, and the 20-minute documentary “Mia epanastasi arxizei” (“A Revolution Begins”) (directed by Vangelis Dimitriou), based on the first chapter of the book, will be screened.

Co-organized by: Pancretan Association of Mikis Theodorakis’ Friends / Metronomos Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Irthan me mia klimatoverga ap’ tin Kriti. Poiimata” (“They came with a vine from Crete. Poems”) by Cevat Çapan
The two daughters of the Turkish Cretan poet and academic Cevat Çapan, Leylâ Çapan and Nigar Çapan, read a text written by Cevat especially for the event, while the Turkish Cretan poet Ayșe Lahur Kirtunç and the translator Anthi Karra speak about his work. Moderator: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director, publisher.

Co-organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Chania, omorfi poli” (“Chania, beautiful city”)
The book “Chania, omorfi poli: Selidodeiktes mnimis kai logotechnias” (“Chania, Beautiful City: Bookmarks of Memory and Literature”) [Text selection: Niki Troullinou, author; Eni Kakoula, photographer, coordinator] will be discussed by Manolis Piblis, Chania Book Festival director, Niki Troullinou, writer and Eni Koukoula, photographer. Moderation: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, CFF director, responsible for Pyxida tis Polis Publishing.

Co-organised by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing and Chania Film Festival (CFF)

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Readings of historical sources: Creating books for education and community
Discussed by Hara Andreadou, historian, scientific collaborator of the Chania Film Festival, curator of the Pyxida tis Polis Publishing, Lefteris Lambrakis, actor, artistic director of the exhibitions of the Chania Film Festival, curator of the Pyxida tis Polis Publishing, Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director, responsible for the Pyxida tis Polis Publishing, Madalena Chorafaki, philologist, president of the Cultural Association “Pergamos”, Vryses Platanias and Irini Kalfaki, philologist.

Co-organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Pou zei o lykos?” (“Where does the wolf live?”) by Rhea Galanaki
The novel “Pou zei o lykos;” (“Where does the wolf live?”), with the dedication “For the groups of friends, from ’67 to ’74”, long out of print, is being reissued exactly fifty years after the iconic year of 1974, featuring an extensive afterword written today. Author Rhea Galanaki discusses with Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Philology, University of Crete.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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Discussing on Literature and Ideas under the Dictatorship and at the beginning of the Metapolitefsi
Rhea Galanaki, prose writer and Alexis Ziras, literature critic, began to make their personal mark on the fields of literature and ideas of the second half of the 20th century, especially during the dictatorship and the beginning of Metapolitefsi. Now, fifty years later, they share their memories of this crucial period and reassess their actions and participations that have now been incorporated into the scale of our entire cultural historiography. Moderated by Yannis Pantazopoulos.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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Cretan Cultural and Literary Identity
Three authors engage in a conversation exploring the impact of their Cretan heritage on the shaping of their identities in relation to their gender and creative endeavors. The discussion also delves into the portrayal of Cretan identity in literature, whether influenced by Nikos Kazantzakis or other perspectives. Speakers: Michalis Albatis, Rea Galanaki, Niki Troullinou. Moderator: Varvara Perraki, President of the Association of Philologists of Chania.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“The night will be long” by Santiago Gamboa
Author Santiago Gamboa talks about his new book (published by Dioptra Publishing) with historian Lena Matsiori and translator Kostas Athanasiou.

Organized by the Greek-Ibero-American “Literatura en/em Atenas – LEA” Festival

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Mama, ego den eimai ego” (“Mom, I am not me”) by Kostas Ganotis & “Arrostos se taxidi” (“Sick on a journey”) by Panagiotis Evangelidis
The writer, translator and director Panagiotis Evangelidis (Polychromos Planitis Publishing) discusses with the songwriter and writer Kostas Ganotis (Livanis Publishing) about their artistic and literary multidimensional work, which illuminates the worlds of people who live far from social norms and conventions. Moderated by journalist and project advisor of the Chania Book Festival, Kiriaki Beioglou.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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Concert with Kostas Ganotis and Haig Yazdjian: One poet, two worlds
A melodic exploration of the essence of Constantine Cavafy’s poetic discourse by composer and performer Kostas Ganotis (guitar, voice), with the participation of Haig Yazdjian (oud, voice), which highlights the harmonious resonance of the two worlds that coexist at the heart of Cavafy’s poetic universe.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Police literature and war
The members of the Hellenic Club of Police Literature Writers (ELSAL) Vassilis Danellis, Nina Kouletaki and Lefteris Giannakoudakis discuss the depiction of war in police literature, both Greek and foreign. 

Organised by the Greek Club of Crime Writers (ELSAL)

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

From Oxford to Chania
The British hellenist, Oxford professor of Literature, poet and novelist Ruth Pantel talks to the writer Spyros Giannaras and her Greek publisher Kostas Papadopoulos about her relationship with Greece and her novel “Daughters of the Labyrinth”, which is set against the backdrop of the Jewish community of Chania.

Co-organized by Potamos Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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Literary genres in dialogue: The play of writing and boundaries in the field of literature
Authors Ioanna Bourazopoulou, Pela Soultatou and Niki Troullinou discuss how elements such as fiction, satire, poetry and essays are mixed in contemporary literature and whether there are borders in literature, literally and figuratively. Moderation: Spyros Giannaras, author, translator.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Kazantzakis 1: I Kritiki Matia (1883-1919)” (“Kazantzakis 1: The Cretan Perspective”) & “Kazantzakis 2: O Polyvoulos Kosmos (1921-1957)” (Kazantzakis 2: The Noisy World”) by Allain Glykos
French author Allain Glykos discusses his two impressive graphic novels, co-created with illustrator Antonin, dedicated to Nikos Kazantzakis, with journalist Eleonora Orfanidou.

Co-organized by: Dioptra Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

The levitation between the local and the global
The practical relationship of poetry with history and with current affairs. The relationship of poetry to other arts and forms of expression. With poets: Yannis Doukas, Haris Psarras, Orfeas Apergis, Lenia Safiropoulou, Krystalli Glyniadakis.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

European Literature: Past, Present, Future
The award-winning Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov (International Booker Prize 2023, Strega European Prize 2021, National Literary Award Bulgarian Novel of the Year 2013, etc.) discusses with journalist Kiriaki Beioglou. Introduced by Nikos Argyris, editor.

Co-organized by Ikaros Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Concert with Kalogeraki Bros
Kalogeraki Bros (Michalis and Pantelis Kalogerakis) present a part of their previous recordings, as well as their new work, which will be presented for the first time at the Alternative Stage of the National Opera House. With the participation of musicians Lambros Papanikolaou on double bass and Efstratios Grindzalis on bouzouki.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

3rd Greek-German translation workshop ViceVersa & “Vater und ich” (“Father and I”) by Dilek Güngör
Announcement of the results of the 3rd ViceVersa Greek-German translation workshop (23-30 June) by translators Michaela Prinzinger and Theo Votsos and the participants. Presentation of the book “Vater und ich” (“Father and I”) by the German journalist and writer of Turkish origin, Dilek Güngör, and her translator in Greek, Theo Votsos.

Organized by the German Translators’ Fund/DÜF-Toledo Programme, Commissioner for Culture and Media of the German Federal Government

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

The archaeological construction of Europe: orientalism, myths of whiteness, and the Global South
Yannis Hamilakis, Professor of Archaeology and Modern Greek Studies at Brown University, USA (“Archaiologia, ethnos kai fyli”/“Archaeology, Nation and Race”, “Archaiologia kai Evropaiki Neoterikotita”/“Archaeology and European Modernity”), discusses with Manolis Pimplis, Chania Book Festival director, about how archaeological accounts of the “Minoans” proclaimed Crete, cradle of the “first European civilization”, how archaeologists contributed to the Europeanization of Greece and the production of a geopolitics of whiteness, and how we could rethink Greece in the context of the debate on the Global South.

Co-organized by Eikostos Protos Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Running” by Cara Hoffman
A story of survival, “beautiful and atmospheric” (Kirkus Reviews), crafted by the American author who “writes like a dream—a disturbing, emotionally charged dream” (The Wall Street Journal). The author discusses with journalist and author Dionysis Marinos. 

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Afto ekanes panta” (“You’ve Always Done This”) by Nikos Iatrou & “Sarah en Berlin” by Ismini Kariotaki
The novelists Nikos Iatrou and Ismini Kariotaki discuss parenthood, on the occasion of their two recent books, “Afto ekanes panta” (“You’ve Always Done This”) and “Sarah en Berlin”, respectively. Moderation: Alexandra Christakaki, journalist.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing / Potamos Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Aposyndesi” (“Disconnection”) by Nikos Iatrou
The author Nikos Iatrou converses with the journalist and project advisor of the Chania Book Festival, Kiriaki Beioglou, about his new novel (Iolkos Publishing), a story of desire, loss, and pain of two individuals who undergo a double shock upon learning simultaneously about the death of their partners and their secret relationship.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Workshop for teachers
Using travel literature in teaching can be an excellent option to encourage students to explore new worlds and cultures. Educational material will be provided and interactive activities will be presented on the books «Fantastiki volta sto Londino» / “Fantastic walk in London”, «Fantastiki volta sti Florentia» / “Fantastic walk in Florence”, «Fantastiki volta sti Thessaloniki» / “Fantastic walk in Thessaloniki” (Kalenti Publishing), «Ta magika ble gyalia mas taxidevoun sta limania tis Kyprou» / “Our magic blue glasses travel us to the ports of Cyprus” (Cyprus Ports Authority). Curated by Melina Iliopoulou, Msc Sociologist, special educator, author.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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Children’s creative writing workshop “Travelling with imagination”
A creative writing program for children 7-12 years old on the subject of travel, with the educational curation of Melina Iliopoulou, Msc Sociologist, special educator and author, based on her book series “Fantastiki volta sti Thessaloniki”/“Fantastic Walk in Thessaloniki”, “Fantastiki volta sti Florentia”/“Fantastic walk in Florence”, “Fantastiki volta sto Londino”/“Fantastic walk in London” (Kalenti Publishing). The program aims to introduce children to the concept of studying different countries of the world through culture, language, and monuments.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Theatrical reading: by Rumena Bužarovska
The actress Stellina Ioannidou reads excerpts from the book “My Husband” by Rumena Bužarovska.

Organized by the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Theatrical reading: Éric Vuillard
The actress Stellina Ioannidou reads excerpts from books by the French author Éric Vuillard.

Organized by the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Manos Hadjidakis: Creator & Citizen
A discussion about Manos Hadjidakis, both as a creator and an active and interventionist citizen, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth and his iconic texts “O kathreftis kai to machairi” (“The Mirror and the Knife”) and “Ta scholia tou Tritou” (“The Comments of the Third”).

The conversation features Aliki Kagialoglou, artist, Angela Kastrinaki, Professor of Modern Greek Philology at the Department of Philology, University of Crete, and author, and Loudovikos ton Anogeion, singer, composer, and lyricist. Coordinated by: Kiriaki Beioglou, journalist, member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“I protevousa ton dakryon” (“The capital of tears”) by Leonidas Kakaroglou

Author Leonidas Kakaroglou engages in a discussion about his poetry collection, published by Estia Publishing, with Anna Lampardaki, philologist, and Nektaria-Nina Mendrinou, poet and pharmacist. Lefteris Lamprakis, actor, artistic director of exhibitions, and editor of publications for the Chania Film Festival, reads selected poems.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Imerologio Atomikon, En Smyrni 1918-1919” (“Personal Diary, In Smyrna 1918-1919”) by Leonidas Kakaroglou

The writer and poet Leonidas Kakaroglou discusses with Christos Tsantis, writer, head of Radamanthis Publishing, Theocharis I. Fragkioudakis, writer, historical researcher, Sifis Michelogiannis, writer, member of the steering committee of the International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis.

ORGANIZATION: Radamanthis Publishing / International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Three writers, one generation?
Authors Haris Kalaitzidis (“Polemiki Michani” / “The War Machine”, Estia Publishing), Michalis Malandrakis (“Patriot”, Polis Publishing) and Antonis Mylonakis (“Ippokampos” / “Hippocampus”, Kastaniotis Publishing) discuss their books and the literary characteristics of their generation.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

Loss and Mourning: Individual and Collective Traumas in Literature
Discussants: Voula Antoniadou (author), Maria Katsikandaraki (author and educator), Michalis Paterakis (poet), Katerina Stamatelatou (author), Andromachi Chourdaki (author). Moderated by: Anna Kallivretaki (author).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Radamanthis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Concert with Kalogeraki Bros
Kalogeraki Bros (Michalis and Pantelis Kalogerakis) present a part of their previous recordings, as well as their new work, which will be presented for the first time at the Alternative Stage of the National Opera House. With the participation of musicians Lambros Papanikolaou on double bass and Efstratios Grindzalis on bouzouki.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Concert with Kalogeraki Bros
Kalogeraki Bros (Michalis and Pantelis Kalogerakis) present a part of their previous recordings, as well as their new work, which will be presented for the first time at the Alternative Stage of the National Opera House. With the participation of musicians Lambros Papanikolaou on double bass and Efstratios Grindzalis on bouzouki.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

How do we talk about European literature in a changing Europe?
The authors Christos Asteriou, Lefteris Kalospyros and Yannis Doukas will be in conversation.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Different approaches to the historical novel
The case of «Nikitria skoni» (“Winning Dust”) and the novels «Enas fonos stin avli tis Amalias» (“A Murder in Amalia’s Court”) and «Tessera chromata tou kalokairiou» (“Four Colours of Summer”). The authors of the books, Kostas Kaltsas and Tefcros Michaelides, will be in conversation.

Co-organized by Psichogios Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

The Concept of Self
Three experiential self-esteem workshops for children aged 12-17, each lasting thirty minutes, will run simultaneously at three points of the Mediterranean Architecture Center (Grand Arsenal). Curated by educator, Chania Mayor’s educational advisor, and author Anna Nebavlaki (“Ftou Kai Vgaino” / “Ready or not, here I come!”, Kaleidoscope Publishing), along with local and other artists and scientists, the workshops will operate in a circular manner, so all children will rotate through each one: 1st Workshop: “Food for Thought” (Konstantinos V. Proimos, Assistant Professor of History, Theory, and Criticism of Architecture at the University of Patras), 2nd Workshop: “Something Precious” (Konstantinos Fischer, Visual Artist), 3rd Workshop: “Lights, Camera, Action Chania” (Nikos Kampianakis, Photographer).

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Epiviosi kai Ierotita” (“Survival and Sanctity”) by Alexandra Kandanou
Author Alexandra Kandanou discusses her recent book (Papazisis Publishing) with Konstantinos Proimos, Professor of Aesthetics, Department of Architecture, University of Patras, member of the Board of the Philological Association “Chrysostomos” and Socrates Kampouropoulos, translator, poet, former special advisor to the National Book Center and the Ministry of Culture.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“I moires” / “The fates” – Duration: 30 minutes
Performance based on poetic language, voice and music. Stories of women who were annihilated and others who suffered what cannot be undone, meet with ancient and contemporary, visible and invisible fates, which turn the course of events, transform circumstances and actors or give justice where there is none. Written and narrated by author Pavlina Marvin. On voice and guitar the singer-songwriter Kreon Kanakaris.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Athoryva to ‘strone” (“Silently, He Spread It”) by Marinella Vlachaki
Author Marinella Vlachaki discusses her book “Athoryva to ‘strone” (“Silently, He Spread It”), which includes short stories and theatrical monologues written between 2006 and 2022, with director-actor Kostis Kapelonis and Associate Professor of Modern Greek Philology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Anastasia Markomichelaki.

Moderation: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Director of the Chania Film Festival, publisher.

Co-organized by: Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“A Musical Bridge Between Greece and Turkey,” Honoring Zülfü Livaneli
A special musical evening dedicated to the deep friendship and artistic meeting of two iconic creators: Mikis Theodorakis and Zülfü Livaneli. The performance will be by Ioanna Forti, with Heraklis Zakkas on bouzouki, Alexandros Kapsokavadis on guitar, and Achilleas Wastor on piano, who is also responsible for the artistic direction of the program. Greetings will be delivered by Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor for Culture of Chania, and Giorgos Agorastakis, president of the Pan-Cretan Association of Mikis Theodorakis Friends.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Milan Kundera : Écrire, quelle drôle d’idée !” / “Milan Kundera: Writing, What a Strange Idea!” by Florence Noiville
French journalist, head of foreign literature in the book section of the French newspaper Le Monde, and author Florence Noiville converses with publisher Eva Karaitidi about her new book. Moderated by Tina Mandilara, journalist.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“1941 Afstira Syskotisis” (“1941 Strict Blackout”) by Thanasis Petrou
Author Thanasis Petrou discusses his new graphic novel “1941 Afstira Syskotisis” (“1941 Strict Blackout”) with Vangelis Karamanolakis, Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing

4th Chania Book Festivla 2025

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“I defteri zoi tou Eleftheriou Venizelou” (“The Second Life of Eleftherios Venizelos”) by Christos Triantafyllou
Historian Christos Triantafyllou discusses his book “I defteri zoi tou Eleftheriou Venizelou” (“The Second Life of Eleftherios Venizelos”) with historian and professor of Modern and Contemporary History at NKUA, Vangelis Karamanolakis, Giorgos Koukourakis, political scientist, Associate Director of the National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”, and Elia Vardaki, PhD in Social Anthropology, researcher at the Technical University of Crete.

COORDINATION: National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos” / Themelio Publishing 

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Poetry and song
The poet Kostas Koutsourelis, on the occasion of his latest book “Ti einai kai ti den einai i Poiisi” (“What is and what is not Poetry”), discusses with the lyrics writer Paraskevas Karasoulos.

Co-organized by Mikri Arktos Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

Poetic voices of Crete: Creating Poetry, Crossing Boundaries
Three poets, Eleni Marinaki, Marinella Vlachaki and Katerina Vlachaki, who live and create in Crete today, discuss the limits they are called upon to overcome, the recording of their physical and psychological traumas and the redemptive power of poetry. Moderation: Angeliki Karathanassi-Manousaki, Philologist and writer.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Poetic voices of Crete: Creating Poetry, Crossing Boundaries
Three poets, Eleni Marinaki, Marinella Vlachaki and Katerina Vlachaki, who live and create in Crete today, discuss the limits they are called upon to overcome, the recording of their physical and psychological traumas and the redemptive power of poetry. Moderation: Angeliki Karathanassi-Manousaki, Philologist and writer.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

The working class is going to hell

The Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete, at the invitation of the Chania Book Festival, presents a musical reading based on the book by Didier Eribon, “Returning to Reims”. The book is brought to life with words and music by actor, director and acting teacher Akyllas Karazisis and British musician, composer and producer Gary Salomon. 

Co-organized by the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Afto ekanes panta” (“You’ve Always Done This”) by Nikos Iatrou & “Sarah en Berlin” by Ismini Kariotaki
The novelists Nikos Iatrou and Ismini Kariotaki discuss parenthood, on the occasion of their two recent books, “Afto ekanes panta” (“You’ve Always Done This”) and “Sarah en Berlin”, respectively. Moderation: Alexandra Christakaki, journalist.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing / Potamos Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Irthan me mia klimatoverga ap’ tin Kriti. Poiimata” (“They came with a vine from Crete. Poems”) by Cevat Çapan

The two daughters of the Turkish Cretan poet and academic Cevat Çapan, Leylâ Çapan and Nigar Çapan, read a text written by Cevat especially for the event, while the Turkish Cretan poet Ayșe Lahur Kirtunç and the translator Anthi Karra speak about his work. Moderator: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director, publisher.

Co-organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival2024

“Nikos Gkatsos. Doste mou mia taftotita, na thymitho poios eimai” (“Nikos Gatsos. Give me an identity, so I can remember who I am”) by Stavros G. Kartsonakis
First presentation of the book “Nikos Gkatsos. Doste mou mia taftotita, na thymitho poios eimai (Poiisi kai stichourgiki 1931-1991)” (“Nikos Gatsos. Give me an identity, so I can remember who I am”) (Poetry and lyrics 1931-1991)”). The author Stavros G. Kartsonakis discusses with the writer Agathi Dimitrouka and the professor of Modern Greek Literature at the University of Palermo, Maria Caracauzi, about the book, which contains important – known and unknown – research and judgments about the poet, his youthful literary steps of the first period, unpublished notes, radio broadcasts and chronicles of the creation of his important works.

Co-organized by Metronomos Publishing.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Psila Grammata” by Ioanna Karystiani
The author Ioanna Karystiani discusses her recent book with Vaggelio Serdaki-Hiotaki, an educator.

Co-organized by: Kastaniotis Publications

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

Manos Hadjidakis: Creator & Citizen
A discussion about Manos Hadjidakis, both as a creator and an active and interventionist citizen, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth and his iconic texts “O kathreftis kai to machairi” (“The Mirror and the Knife”) and “Ta scholia tou Tritou” (“The Comments of the Third”).

The conversation features Aliki Kagialoglou, artist, Angela Kastrinaki, Professor of Modern Greek Philology at the Department of Philology, University of Crete, and author, and Loudovikos ton Anogeion, singer, composer, and lyricist. Coordinated by: Kiriaki Beioglou, journalist, member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Mila, Pinelopi!” (Speak, Penelope!) by Angela Kastrinakis
The author Angela Kastrinaki discusses her recent book (published by University Publications of Crete) with Marina Aretaki, member of the H.E.D. of the Department of Philology of the University of Crete

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Sympligades genethlion” (“Clashing Birthday”) and Piso apo ta thola tzamia (“Behind the fogged windows”) by Dimitris Katalifos
The actor and poet Dimitris Katalifos discusses with journalist Kιriaki Beioglou how his two poetry collections were born, and reads his own poems and those of his favorite poets who have defined him.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Loss and Mourning: Individual and Collective Traumas in Literature
Discussants: Voula Antoniadou (author), Maria Katsikandaraki (author and educator), Michalis Paterakis (poet), Katerina Stamatelatou (author), Andromachi Chourdaki (author). Moderated by: Anna Kallivretaki (author).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Radamanthis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Libraries and Democracy
Speakers: Paraskevi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: “Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: Dormitories of knowledge, democracy, culture” / Dr Anthi Katsirikou, President of the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists, Head of the Library of the University of Piraeus: “A brief theoretical introduction” / Maria Chetzaki and Katerina Voutiraki, Librarian and Head of the Library & Information Centre of the Hellenic Mediterranean University: “Libraries and services for students with print disabilities (visually impaired)” / Maria Daoudaki, Head of Department at the Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and the Open Access movement” / Dr Manolis Koukourakis, Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and cultural resources” / Irini Dragasaki: Koundourios Public Library of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos: “Cultural events for reading culture”.

Co-organised by the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“…Os onoma psilon” (“….As a simple name”) by Katerina Kostiou
Katerina Kostiou, Professor of Modern Greek Literature, Department of Literature, University of Patras, discusses with journalist and writer Kostas Katsoularis her recent study (Nefeli Publishing) on the constitution and function of “masks” in the acknowledged poems of the Alexandrian poet.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Catch the Rabbit” by Lana Bastašić
Author Lana Bastašić discusses her recent book with journalist and writer Kostas Katsoularis.

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“Paraguay” by Michalis Modinos
The writer Michalis Modinos talks with the journalist Kostas Katsoularis about his latest novel “Paraguay”.
Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Peripeteies stin kouzina me ton Pari” (“Adventures in the kitchen with Paris”) by Eleni Katsouli
The author Eleni Katsouli is waiting for you to read and have fun with one of Paris’ stories. For children above 4 years old.

Co-organized by Metaixmio Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“The Palace on the Higher Hill” by Karim Kattan
The award-winning Palestinian author, born in Jerusalem, and PhD in Comparative Literature, Karim Kattan, discusses the relationship between literature, society, and politics with poet Danai Sioziou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Estia Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

From great to “Little Dangerous Ones”: a landmark book on the thinking of a whole generation
“Mikres epikindynes” (“Little Dangerous Ones”) (Key Books Publishing) is about 100 girls, from 13-22 years old, who shared their stories fearlessly, honestly and bravely. Member of Parliament for Chania Sevi Amanatidou-Voloudaki, Emmanouela Katzouraki, World Shooting Champion and Marianna Skylakaki, CEO of AtheNEAs, discuss the book.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Deepfake” by Makis Malafekas
The author Makis Malafekas discusses his new book “Deepfake” with the translator, publisher and writer Panagiotis Kehagias.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Antipodes Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

The Europe of Crete, the Europe of Myth
Author Nikos Psilakis talks about the Europe of myths, their depictions in the rituals and worship of Cretan cities, their timeless influences on ancient and Western art, and the multifaceted symbolism of related narratives, inspired by his book “Cretan Mythology” (Karmanor Publishing). Moderated by Vassilis Kimoulis, Press Office and Communication Manager of the Chania Book Festival.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Oi exisoseis” (“The Equations”) by Vassilios F. Drolias
Astrophysicist and author Vassilios Drolias discusses with Vassilis Kimoulis, Press Office and Communication Manager of the Chania Book Festival, about his new hybrid novel on modern physics and science in general.

Co-organized by Gutenberg Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Seferis kai Camus: Zitima fotos” ( “Seferis and Camus: A Question of Light”) by Yannis Kiourtsakis
Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Philology, University of Crete, discusses with the novelist and essayist Yannis Kiourtsakis about his new book and how two authors of the 20th century prophetically see the current crisis of European and global civilization.

Co-organized by Patakis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

“Irthan me mia klimatoverga ap’ tin Kriti. Poiimata” (“They came with a vine from Crete. Poems”) by Cevat Çapan
The two daughters of the Turkish Cretan poet and academic Cevat Çapan, Leylâ Çapan and Nigar Çapan, read a text written by Cevat especially for the event, while the Turkish Cretan poet Ayșe Lahur Kirtunç and the translator Anthi Karra speak about his work. Moderator: Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director, publisher.

Co-organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

The experience of translation and its importance for literature and language
Translators Kostas Athanasiou (Spanish), Rita Kolaiti (French), David Connolly (English), Katerina Schina (English) discuss the adventure of translation and its importance for the dissemination of literature and the dialogue between cultures. Moderated by Kostas Athanasiou.

3rd Chania Book Ferstival 2024

Are the Ottomans to blame for the removal of the Modern Greeks from Europe and the Modern Greek misery?
The Ottomanist Elias Kolovos (University of Crete) discusses with the historian Yannis Skalidakis (University of Crete), in an event moderated by Modern Greek studies professor Yannis Dimitrakakis (University of Crete), on whether or not the widespread view that the Ottomans are to blame for the departure from the European course during the years of the Ottoman rule and the modern Greek misadventure is valid, on the occasion of the publication of the book by Elias Kolovos, “Stous kairous ton soultanon: oi koinonies tis ellinikis chersonisou ypo othomaniki kyriarchia” (“In the times of the Sultans: The societies of the Greek peninsula under Ottoman rule”, Asini Publishing 2023).

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Kata Ioanni” (“According to John”) by Spyros Petroulakis
The writer Spyros Petroulakis talks with the paralympian and writer Antonis Tsapatakis and the Associate Professor of Ottoman History at the Department of History and Archaeology of the Faculty of Philosophy of the University of Crete, Ilias Kolovos.

Co-organized by Minoas Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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“Eleftherios Venizelos. Akolouthontas ta vimata tou stin Istoria” (“Eleftherios Venizelos. Following his footsteps in History”) by Maro Vasiliadou
The author Maro Vasiliadou talks to the Ottoman History Professor at the University of Crete, Ilias Kolovos, regarding her new book.

Co-organized by Dioptra Publishing, in collaboration with the National Research Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

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Crete as a (meta)border: three historians discuss with a writer
The writer Nikos Psilakis, with the literary depiction of Crete as a starting point, discusses with the historians Ilias Kolovos, Associate Professor of Ottoman History at the Department of History and Archaeology of the Faculty of Philosophy of the University of Crete, Marinos Sarigiannis, researcher at the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) and Yannis Skalidakis, lecturer at the University of Crete, on the modern history of Crete as a border island in the wider context of the Eastern Mediterranean. We will start from the years of the Ottoman conquest of Crete, and then discuss the relations between Christians and Muslims on the island until the years of the Greek Revolution, with particular reference to the history of Gramvousa as a pirate centre.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Me mia kouverta… sto diastima!” (“With a blanket… into space!”) by Christina Konstantoudakis
Come and fly “With a blanket… into space!” with the author Christina Konstantoudaki. An interactive presentation with games and crafts for children aged 3-6 years old.

Co-organized by Dioptra Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Afti einai i geitonia mou skyle” (“This Is My Neighborhood, Dog”) by Pavlos Pavlidis
Songwriter and poet Pavlos Pavlidis discusses his book with author, philologist, and songwriter Thomas Korovinis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“I metamorfosi tis” (“Her transformation”) by Amanda Michalopoulou
Author Amanda Michalopoulou engages in a discussion about her latest novel with journalist Aphroditi Kosma.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“Myron i Arachni – Metamorfoseis II” (“Myron the Spider – Metamorphoses II”) by Lila Troulinou
Sitsa Kotsifaki, president of the Association of Philologists of Chania Prefecture, will present the novel (Perispomeni Publishing) by Lila Troulinou and will discuss with the author. The actor Dimitris Kiosterakis will read some excerpts from the book.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

Comics and Literature – Faithful Adaptations and Irreverent Parodies
In discussion are: Giannis Koukoulas, Art Historian, PhD in the Department of Theory and History of Art at the Athens School of Fine Arts (ASFA), Thanasis Karampalios, illustrator and Tatiana Rapakoulia, translator.

Co-organized by Chaniartoon

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“I defteri zoi tou Eleftheriou Venizelou” (“The Second Life of Eleftherios Venizelos”) by Christos Triantafyllou
Historian Christos Triantafyllou discusses his book “I defteri zoi tou Eleftheriou Venizelou” (“The Second Life of Eleftherios Venizelos”) with historian and professor of Modern and Contemporary History at NKUA, Vangelis Karamanolakis, Giorgos Koukourakis, political scientist, Associate Director of the National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”, and Elia Vardaki, PhD in Social Anthropology, researcher at the Technical University of Crete.

COORDINATION: National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos” / Themelio Publishing 

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Mavrokordatos kai Trikoupis, Venizelos kai Karamanlis: I architektones tou politevmatos. Apo tis ohthes tou Tamesi stin plateia Syntagmatos” (“Mavrokordatos and Trikoupis, Venizelos and Karamanlis: The Architects of the Political System. From the Banks of the Thames to Syntagma Square”) by Nikos K. Alivizatos
Nikos K. Alivizatos, Emeritus Professor of Constitutional Law at the Law School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), discusses his book “Mavrokordatos kai Trikoupis, Venizelos kai Karamanlis: I architektones tou politevmatos” (“Mavrokordatos and Trikoupis, Venizelos and Karamanlis: The Architects of the Political System”) with the Mayor of Chania, Panagiotis Simandirakis, and Nikolaos Emm. Papadakis, Director of the National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos.” Moderation: Giorgos Koukourakis, political scientist, Associate Director of the National Foundation for Research and Studies “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: National Research and Study Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos” / Metaixmio Publishing 

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Libraries and Democracy
Speakers: Paraskevi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: “Libraries of the Municipality of Chania: Dormitories of knowledge, democracy, culture” / Dr Anthi Katsirikou, President of the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists, Head of the Library of the University of Piraeus: “A brief theoretical introduction” / Maria Chetzaki and Katerina Voutiraki, Librarian and Head of the Library & Information Centre of the Hellenic Mediterranean University: “Libraries and services for students with print disabilities (visually impaired)” / Maria Daoudaki, Head of Department at the Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and the Open Access movement” / Dr Manolis Koukourakis, Library & Information Centre of the Technical University of Crete: “Academic libraries and cultural resources” / Irini Dragasaki: Koundourios Public Library of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos: “Cultural events for reading culture”.

Co-organised by the Association of Greek Librarians and Information Scientists

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Police literature and war
The members of the Hellenic Club of Police Literature Writers (ELSAL) Vassilis Danellis, Nina Kouletaki and Lefteris Giannakoudakis discuss the depiction of war in police literature, both Greek and foreign.

Organised by the Greek Club of Crime Writers (ELSAL)

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Within the circle” by Arne Dahl
Renowned Swedish crime writer Arne Dahl discusses with journalist Nikos Kourmoulis about his book “Within a circle”, his relationship with the debate on environmental destruction and the notorious NOVA team – a group of eccentric police officers who take on the most unusual cases.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaixmio Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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Journal of Language and Art “Erisma”, 1995-2025: ‘Searching for the Territory of Dreams’
A discussion marking the thirtieth anniversary of the publication of the Journal of Language and Art ‘Erisma’ (1995-2025). The contributors of the journal will talk about its role and contribution to local, and beyond, culture: Roula Vouraki, philologist and author; Manolis Manousakas, historical researcher and author; and the editor and director of the journal, historical researcher, sculptor, poet, and author Christos Machairidis. Nikos Kourmoulis, cultural journalist and author, will discuss the role of “Erisma” as a tool for reflection and defining thought, and its critical and historical discourse as an antidote to ignorance.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Erisma Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Pandora” by Christos Chomenidis
Author Christos Chomenidis discusses his most recent book, “Pandora”, with journalist Nikos Kourmoulis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“To mono tis zois tous taxidi. Mikrasia. Odoiporiko se polemo kai se eirini” (“The only trip in their life. Asia Minor. A journey in war and in peace” by Ilias Magklinis
The author Ilias Magklinis talks to the journalist Nikos Kourmoulis about his new book.

Co-organized by Metaixmio Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2023

“The Charm of Book Covers”
A discussion on the importance of book covers and the aesthetics of books in modern publishing. Participants: Christos Kourtoglou, graphic designer, Yannis Palavos, author, Kostas Spatharakis, publisher.

Moderation: Marilena Astrapellou, journalist.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Poetry and song
The poet Kostas Koutsourelis, on the occasion of his latest book “Ti einai kai ti den einai i Poiisi” (“What is and what is not Poetry”), discusses with the lyrics writer Paraskevas Karasoulos.

Co-organized by Mikri Arktos Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Ola se mia zoi. Apo tin Ilio ston Galaxia” (“All in One Lifetime. From the Sun to the Galaxy”) by Stamatios Krimigis and Makis Provatas
The internationally renowned academic and space scientist Dr. Stamatios Krimigis discusses with journalist and author Makis Provatas, on the occasion of their book “Ola se mia zoi. Apo tin Ilio ston Galaxia” (“All in One Lifetime. From the Sun to the Galaxy”), a journey that begins in Chios and extends to the far reaches of the solar system.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Papadopoulos Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

European Literature and R-evolution
Antigoni Vlavianou, Associate Professor of History of European Literature (Hellenic Academy of Sciences) and Titika Dimitroulia, Professor of Theory and Practice in Translation (University of Athens), discuss about: “European Literature and the R-evolution”, commenting on it in the context of an individual or collective attempt to distance and release literary creation towards a political, ethical and aesthetic crisis. They discuss European literary/artistic movements and authors who opposed the established order with bold disbelief, caustic irony and a more or less radical theory. Moderated by Poli Krimnioti, journalist.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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The publishing landscape: crises and prospects
The editors Foivos Vlachos (Keimena Publishing), George H. Efstathiou and Katerina Thanopoulou (Aparsis Publishing) and Thanasis Sylivos (Metronomos Publishing) discuss with journalist Poly Krimnioti about the publishing landscape during the period of repeated crises and the prospects of small and medium-sized publishing houses in the near future.

Co-organized by Keimena Publishing / Aparsis Publishing / Metronomos Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2023

“Grey Bees” by Andrei Kurkov
The Ukrainian writer Andrei Kurkov talks about his latest book with the author and chairman of the Electoral Board of the National Library of Greece, Stavros Zoumboulakis.

Co-organized by Kastaniotis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Borders” through the work of Christiana Lambrinidis
A modular audiovisual presentation of Christiana Lambrinidis’ work on the theme of borders, through four of her theatrical works (“B.OUND”, “Peace talk”, “National Kiss”, “Monologues of the borders”), their actions and their respective productions. The presentation is divided into four thematic sections: Borders and citizenship, Borders and fear, Borders and sexuality, Borders and incarceration, with relative videos and discussions.

Co-organized by Aparsis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Kangelo” by Dimitris Maniatis
Is there a Hawaii in Metaxourgeio? A hearse on Patision Street. Prime minister Andreas Papandreou at Kotta’s, and… twelve more short stories of very short form. Twelve hard moments. Journalist and writer Dimitris Maniatis talks about his new book (Metronomos Publishing) with Anna Lampardaki, philologist, Dimitris Maridakis, journalist and Maria Souroukidou, radio producer.

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“Asto ki as apothanei” (“Leave it and let it die”) & “Ti glossa tis tin petaxan sti gata” (“Her tongue was thrown to the cat”) by Antonia Botonaki

The author Niki Troullinou and the philologist Anna Lampardaki discuss about the revised reissue of the novel, “Asto ki as apothanei” (“Leave it and let it die”). The author’s third collection of poems will be presented by philologist Varvara Perraki. The author Antonia Botonaki will address a greeting and discuss with the audience.

Co-organized by Thraka Publishing / Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

3rd Chania book Festival 2024

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“Famigia” (“Familya”) by Antonia Zevoli-Daoudaki
The author Antonia Zevoli-Daountaki discusses her book (published by Evmaros) with Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director and Anna Lampardaki, philologist.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“I protevousa ton dakryon” (“The capital of tears”) by Leonidas Kakaroglou

Author Leonidas Kakaroglou engages in a discussion about his poetry collection, published by Estia Publishing, with Anna Lampardaki, philologist, and Nektaria-Nina Mendrinou, poet and pharmacist. Lefteris Lamprakis, actor, artistic director of exhibitions, and editor of publications for the Chania Film Festival, reads selected poems.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“I protevousa ton dakryon” (“The capital of tears”) by Leonidas Kakaroglou
Author Leonidas Kakaroglou engages in a discussion about his poetry collection, published by Estia Publishing, with Anna Lampardaki, philologist, and Nektaria-Nina Mendrinou, poet and pharmacist. Lefteris Lamprakis, actor, artistic director of exhibitions, and editor of publications for the Chania Film Festival, reads selected poems.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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Readings of historical sources: Creating books for education and community
Discussed by Hara Andreadou, historian, scientific collaborator of the Chania Film Festival, curator of the Pyxida tis Polis Publishing, Lefteris Lambrakis, actor, artistic director of the exhibitions of the Chania Film Festival, curator of the Pyxida tis Polis Publishing, Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Chania Film Festival director, responsible for the Pyxida tis Polis Publishing, Madalena Chorafaki, philologist, president of the Cultural Association “Pergamos”, Vryses Platanias and Irini Kalfaki, philologist.

Co-organized by Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Poetic rhymes for homeless truths
Roula Vouraki, philologist, writer and the poet Manolis Lefakis explore the homeless truths of poetic discourse.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Erisma Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

“Somata lygra” (“Unfortunate bodies”) by Dimitris Lentzos
The writer Stavros Kartsonakis discusses with Dimitris Lentzos about his new poetry collection “Somata lygra” (“Unfortunate bodies”).

Co-organized by Metronomos Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

Hiding places of self-esteem
Three experiential self-esteem workshops for children aged 5-12, each lasting thirty minutes, which will run simultaneously in three locations of the Centre for Mediterranean Architecture. Curated by the teacher, collaborator of the Mayor of Chania on education issues and author Anna Nempavlaki (“Ftou Kai Vgaino”/“Ready or not, here I come!”, Kaleidoscope Publishing) and by local artists and scientists, and others, the workshops will operate in a circular manner, so that all children will rotate through each one: 1st Workshop: “Delightful activity” (Athina Ntoulia, Education Advisor of the 1st Unit of Chania), 2nd Workshop: “A couple of words from Anna”, Anna Nempavlaki), 3rd Workshop: “Every work is a story” (Kosmas Lilikakis, artist).

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

Concert with Dora Bakopoulou: “When poetry became a song”
The piano soloist Dora Bakopoulou with Angeliki Liouka on vocals present a musical programme dedicated to the lyrics of great poets (Elytis, Gatsos, Livaditis, Ritsos, Seferis, etc.) set to music by Mikis Theodorakis.

George Agorastakis introduces with a speech on the topic “Bibliography for Mikis Theodorakis.”

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“On the Back of the Tiger” by Zülfü Livaneli
The most famous and popular Turkish composer in his country and worldwide, internationally translated and award-winning author Zülfü Livaneli discusses his literary work and his latest book, “On the Back of the Tiger”, with journalist and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival, Kiriaki Beioglou. 

Co-organized by: Patakis Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“A Musical Bridge Between Greece and Turkey,” Honoring Zülfü Livaneli
A special musical evening dedicated to the deep friendship and artistic meeting of two iconic creators: Mikis Theodorakis and Zülfü Livaneli. The performance will be by Ioanna Forti, with Heraklis Zakkas on bouzouki, Alexandros Kapsokavadis on guitar, and Achilleas Wastor on piano, who is also responsible for the artistic direction of the program. Greetings will be delivered by Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor for Culture of Chania, and Giorgos Agorastakis, president of the Pan-Cretan Association of Mikis Theodorakis Friends.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Michael Llewellyn Smith: “Crete in my life”
Address by the esteemed British historian, diplomat, and traveler Michael Lewellin Smith on the impact of Crete in shaping his life and work. The introduction will be delivered by Dimitris Michelogiannis, a lawyer and special adviser to the Region of Crete. Following the lecture, author and historian Lena Divani will engage in a discussion with Michael Lewellin Smith.

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

“I archontissa tou akrotiriou” (“The Lady of the Cape”) & “An den eicha gennithei” (“If I Hadn’t Been Born”) by Joëlle Lopinot
Novelist Joëlle Lopinot discusses her two recent works with journalist Giouli Tsakalou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Minoas Publishing 

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“The Netleti” by Joelle Lopinot
Joelle Lopinot talks with journalist Alexandra Christakaki about her book, which reveals unknown aspects of the history of Crete, as told to the author by the residents of the village Manoliopoulo in the inland of the Platanias Municipality of Chania. With the support of the Hellenic-French Association of Chania.

Co-organized by Minoas Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

Manos Hadjidakis: Creator & Citizen
A discussion about Manos Hadjidakis, both as a creator and an active and interventionist citizen, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth and his iconic texts “O kathreftis kai to machairi” (“The Mirror and the Knife”) and “Ta scholia tou Tritou” (“The Comments of the Third”).

The conversation features Aliki Kagialoglou, artist, Angela Kastrinaki, Professor of Modern Greek Philology at the Department of Philology, University of Crete, and author, and Loudovikos ton Anogeion, singer, composer, and lyricist. Coordinated by: Kiriaki Beioglou, journalist, member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Festive opening of the 4th CBF: “Unforgettable”
The deep-voiced Christophoros Stamboglis with the pianist Miltos Loyadis on piano, will perform great hits of the American musical and some of the most famous jazz songs.

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

Journal of Language and Art “Erisma”, 1995-2025: ‘Searching for the Territory of Dreams’
A discussion marking the thirtieth anniversary of the publication of the Journal of Language and Art ‘Erisma’ (1995-2025). The contributors of the journal will talk about its role and contribution to local, and beyond, culture: Roula Vouraki, philologist and author; Manolis Manousakas, historical researcher and author; and the editor and director of the journal, historical researcher, sculptor, poet, and author Christos Machairidis. Nikos Kourmoulis, cultural journalist and author, will discuss the role of “Erisma” as a tool for reflection and defining thought, and its critical and historical discourse as an antidote to ignorance.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Erisma Publishing

4th Chania Book Festival 2025

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“Efkrates anagnoseis. Gymnasmata kritikis” (“Temperate readings. Exercises in Criticism”) by Roula Vouraki

Philologist and author Roula Vouraki talks about her new book with philologist Varvara Perraki and publisher Christos Machairidis, author, director of the magazine of language and art “Erisma”.

Co-organized by Erisma Publishing

3rd Chania Book Festival 2024

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“From the voluntary to the compulsory exchange of populations (1914-1923)”
In conversation are Christos Machairidis, historical researcher-author, and George Limantzakis, Turkologist-historian.

Co-organized by Erisma Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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The issue of modern Greek literature with LGBTQ+ content
Discussion with Christos Machairidis, writer, Joseph Alygiosakis, writer, and Roula Vouraki, philologist-writer.

Co-organised by Erisma Publishing

2nd Chania Book Festival 2023

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“O nomos 2870/1922 kai i “eftaktos apochorisis” apo tin Mikra Asia” (“Law 2870/1922 and the “speedy withdrawal” from Asia Minor”) by Christos Machairidis
The author Christos Machairidis talks about his new book with the philologist and writer Roula Vouraki and the philologist Sophia Stathaki.
Co-organized by Erisma Publishing.

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“To mono tis zois tous taxidi. Mikrasia. Odoiporiko se polemo kai se eirini” (“The only trip in their life. Asia Minor. A journey in war and in peace” by Ilias Magklinis
The author Ilias Magklinis talks to the journalist Nikos Kourmoulis about his new book.

Co-organized by Metaixmio Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022

“Na thymitho na parangeilo” (“To remember to order”) by Stelios Mainas
The actor and writer Stelios Mainas talks to the journalist Pari Spinou about his new novel.

Co-organized by Metaixmio Publishing

1st Chania Book Festival 2022