Writers and readers gathered in Jerusalem during the last week of May as the Jerusalem International Writers Festival returned for four days of conversations, readings and cultural events.
Hosted at Mishkenot Sha’ananim and supported by the Jerusalem Foundation, the Festival created opportunities for dialogue and cultural exchange through a rich program of discussions, readings and literary encounters.
This year, the Festival welcomed international writers Nell Zink, Joseph Finder, Dara Horn, Steve J. Zipperstein, Benjamin Resnick and Marcelo Birmajer, who joined leading Israeli authors for conversations exploring identity, memory, belonging and the role of literature in a rapidly changing world. Italian writer Erri De Luca participated in a live Zoom conversation, sharing insights into his work and the contemporary literary landscape in Italy.
Many of this year’s discussions reflected on the impact of October 7 on Jewish life and identity around the world and the role of storytelling in times of uncertainty. Together, the conversations highlighted literature’s power to preserve memory, foster understanding and create meaningful dialogue across cultures and perspectives.
Now in its 18th year, the Festival remains a cornerstone of Jerusalem’s cultural life, bringing diverse voices together through the enduring power of storytelling.
Photo credit: Jerusalem International Writers Festival
