Read about our upcoming series of Beyond Borders Book Club events here.
The Beyond Borders Book Club is a celebration of great literature from countries beyond Ireland, recommended by guests who have connections to the places discussed in these writings. Its’ aim is to introduce the great diversity of writing and literature in the world to audiences in Ireland.
The Beyond Borders Book Club consists of a series of monthly book club events usually during the winter, ahead of our Festival weekend. At each Book Club meeting, a presenter shares a book that they love and connect to personally and invites members of the audience to read the book and join in a discussion about it. The Book Club meetings are led by a facilitator who will introduce the presenter and guide the discussion. The books themselves are announced ahead of the meetings and are made available to borrow from Clare libraries.
At our festival weekend in March, the presenters come together for a panel discussion about books and reading, and how reading can help us better understand diverse cultures and the wider world.
The Beyond Borders Book Club has always proven to be one of our most popular events, with a diverse range of panelists who have introduced us to literature and culture from many countries around the globe including Nigeria, Egypt, Poland, Argentina and Mexico. In 2023 the Beyond Borders Book Club expanded to include two book clubs for Ukrainians in Kilkee and Lisdoonvarna, in partnership with Clare Libraries.
Past presenters have always found the experience to be enriching and rewarding. It is an opportunity to share great literature from countries in a very personal way, reaching new audiences and making new connections. The discussions at the Beyond Borders Book Club events always acknowledge the growing diverse population in Ireland and our book-loving audiences love to hear about some great books and cultures from people who also love talking about books.
The Ennis Book Club Festival is always looking for new presenters. If you have a book that you connect with personally and would like to share, that originates from a country beyond Ireland then this could be the perfect opportunity.
If you are interested in becoming a presenter for the Beyond Borders Book Club, please send the following information to: info@ennisbookclubfestival.com by September 30th 2023, or complete the form here.
- Your Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Country of origin of the book
- Title of the book that you would like to present
- Name of the author of your chosen book
- In 200 words or less, please tell us your connection to this book
- In 100 words or less, please tell us about yourself
- Do you have any special requirements that we should know about if you are selected?
Presenters will be paid a fee and expenses for participating in the Book Club. Successful applicants will be notified in late Autumn.
The Beyond Borders Book Club is a partnership between Ennis Book Club Festival and Clare Libraries. We are grateful for continuing support from other agencies including the Arts Council, Clare County Council and Clare Local Development Company.
Read about our upcoming series of Beyond Borders Book Club events here.