Inside Frankfurt 2025 – Slovenian Authors, Publishers & Curators Speak

The Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 is a milestone moment for Slovenia. As Guest of Honour, the country isn’t just showcasing its literature — it’s bringing its people to the forefront. Behind the pages and pavilions are the voices of Slovenian authors, publishers, and curators who’ve shaped this extraordinary presence.

We’ve gathered their insights, reflections, and behind-the-scenes stories to give you a true glimpse into Frankfurt 2025 — seen through Slovenian eyes.

Voices

Frankfurt isn’t new for Slovenia, but being Guest of Honour takes things to a whole new level. Authors and publishers agree — it’s a once-in-a-generation spotlight.

Drago Jančar, one of Slovenia’s most internationally translated writers, shares:
“It’s not just about the books. It’s about presence. We’re here to show the world how wide and deep Slovenian literature truly is.”

You’ll hear similar sentiments from younger voices too. Debut novelist Anja Mugerli says,
“For me, Frankfurt is like walking into a dream — one where your story finally meets the world face-to-face.”

Publishers

For Slovenian publishers, the fair is both a celebration and a hustle. Deals, translations, co-publishing opportunities — it all happens fast, and every conversation matters.

Tanja Petrič from Beletrina explains:
“Our goal isn’t just to sell rights. It’s to build bridges — to find publishers who understand our authors, our style, our voice.”

Many publishers are highlighting the diversity of Slovenian writing — from eco-fiction to edgy poetry, graphic novels to children’s books. With tailored catalogs, sleek booths, and scheduled meetings, they’re making every second at the fair count.

Curators

The team behind Slovenia’s national presentation has spent years preparing. From selecting the theme “Honeycomb of Words” to curating events, visuals, and architecture — curators are the invisible engines behind the magic.

Lead curator Irena Štaudohar explains:
“We wanted something organic, something poetic. The honeycomb is about connection — between writers, readers, languages, and countries.”

The Slovenian pavilion itself reflects this — a space made of wood, warmth, and motion. It’s not just a booth; it’s an experience.

Emotions

Being Guest of Honour is more than logistics — it’s emotional. Many authors mention the pride they feel representing a small country with such a strong cultural identity.

Poet and translator Katja Perat reflects:
“It’s powerful. You stand here and realize — our stories matter, even in a sea of voices from all over the world.”

There’s also a sense of responsibility. For many, Frankfurt 2025 isn’t just about the now — it’s about what comes next. How will this exposure change Slovenian literature at home and abroad?

Connections

Slovenian participants agree: the fair is a massive opportunity to connect — not just with international publishers, but also with translators, festival organizers, educators, and readers.

Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:

• Speed-dating style rights meetings
• Curated translator networking events
• Panels featuring joint Slovenian-foreign publishing success stories
• Cross-cultural workshops and literary salons

The emphasis is on long-term collaboration, not quick wins. And that’s where Slovenia’s slow but steady literary tradition shines.

Legacy

When asked what they hope to leave behind after Frankfurt 2025, the answer is clear: impact.

Publisher Goga’s spokesperson sums it up:
“We want people to remember Slovenian literature not just as beautiful, but as necessary — as something that brings meaning, reflection, and challenge.”

And authors? They want translations, yes. But more than that, they want conversations. They want to be part of a global exchange where literature still matters deeply.

Slovenia has arrived — not with noise, but with nuance. And the world is listening.

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