Doulos Hope Book Fair in Penang
A treasure trove of words and stories amidst the vast blue seas – call it a literary odyssey if you will. Welcome aboard Doulos Hope, the world’s largest floating book fair, that has been offering an enchanting experience for book lovers on the high seas in over 150 countries and territories all over the world.
From now till 27th August 2023, the vessel will be docking at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in Penang, carrying its cargo in the form of a book haven. With a diverse collection of literature against a stunning backdrop of the seascape, the floating bookstore lets visitors embark on this extraordinary journey of imagination.
World’s largest floating book fair
Image credit: Doulos Hope via Facebook
Doulos Hope, the world’s largest floating book fair, is something of a maritime wonder.
Combining the allure of the open sea with the magic of literature, the literary voyage has been transporting bookworms to realms away since it first arrived on the island on 31st July. Due to the overwhelming support from Penangites, Doulos Hope recently announced its extended visit to Penang till 27th August.
Image credit: Doulos Hope via Facebook
Here, the ship’s deck is adorned with bookshelves and tables, each laden with literary treasures. From timeless classics and fictional novels to children’s fantasy books and inspirational memoirs, the book fair is a labyrinth of genres and knowledge with over 2,000 book titles that avid readers can lose themselves in the pages of.
Image adapted from: Doulos Hope via Facebook
Throughout the voyage, the ship will also be hosting various events including seminars, conferences, and educational programmes.
Workshops will be conducted in different corners of the ship, so book lovers can indulge in discussions about books and words against the backdrop of the boundless sea.
Image credit: Doulos Hope via Facebook
Those interested would have to register and book a slot of the desired day and time of visit through Doulos Hope’s website.
An entrance fee of RM2 would be required, excluding children under the age of 12 and senior citizens over the age of 65, who can enter the book fair for free. All children must be accompanied by an adult for their safety.
Do ensure that you bring along your identification card or passport as well for identification purposes.
Doulos Hope in Penang
More than just a celebration of literature, Doulos Hope in Penang is a testament to the immeasurable vastness of books, knowledge and imagination, much like the ocean.
In a similar vein, this floating book fair proves just how not even the endless seas can stop kindred spirits from coming together by the magic of words.
Venue: Pier Swettenham, 10300 George Town, Penang
Date: 31st July – 27th August
Time: Tue – Sun 4pm-9pm (Closed on Mondays)
Admission: RM2
For more events in Malaysia, check out ChinaHouse, the longest cafe in Penang with a mini library and an art gallery, and Straits & Oriental Museum, a new museum that houses over 250 ancient ceramics.
Cover image adapted from: Doulos Hope via Facebook