Haitians pack Livres en Folie as PM vows security, again

PORT-AU-PRINCE — A steady stream of readers gathered in Pétion-Ville on June 19 for the 31st edition of Livres en Folie, Haiti’s largest annual book fair — an event that this year took on deeper meaning as it paid tribute to literary giant Frankétienne, who passed away in February. The homage, combined with the enduring presence of the fair amid nationwide turmoil, transformed the gathering into a powerful act of cultural remembrance and resistance.

Held at the Collège des Frères de l’Instruction Chrétienne, the 2025 edition of Livres en Folie brought together seasoned authors, first-time writers, government officials, and curious readers — all eager to reconnect with books in a time when cultural life has been forced into the shadows. 

The event featured 1,187 titles, including works by 94 first-time authors — an impressive feat at a time when publishing in Haiti remains a struggle amid political instability and economic uncertainty. From novels, poetry, and essays to children’s comics and academic works, the stands were full of choices. The fair was organized by Le Nouvelliste, Haiti’s oldest daily newspaper, and long-time event partner Unibank.

The literary fair drew a diverse crowd: young people, elders, students, and children with their parents. They gathered not just to buy books but to meet the authors behind the pages that shaped their imaginations and national consciousness.

The tribute to Frankétienne — born Jean-Pierre Basilic Dantor Franck Étienne d’Argent — anchored the fair’s emotional core. A poet, painter, playwright, musician, and the founder of the Spiralist movement, he published more than 40 works, including Dézafi, the first novel written in Haitian Creole. His towering legacy was felt in every corner of the event, a reminder of how deeply literature shapes Haitian identity.

A second tribute was paid to Christophe Philippe-Charles, who was honored this year with a tribute celebrating his lifelong contribution to Haitian letters. Charles has published more than 150 works across genres.

“Livre en Folie feels like home to me,” said Philippe-Charles, a prolific author who has participated in every edition of the fair since its inception. 

“Every year, I reconnect with readers, fellow writers, and above all, the hope that literature can still bring people together,” Philippe-Charles shared during the opening conference. He expressed his gratitude for the honor, calling it a recognition of his lifelong journey in literature.

The occasion saw Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé reaffirm his commitment to restoring security in a country still reeling from gang violence and growing fear among the population to move freely. Fils-Aimé attended the fair, along with National Education Minister Antoine Augustin and Presidential Councilor Frinel Joseph.

“For 31 years, you’ve continued this work, especially for the youth. I commend your efforts, as well as those of the authors,”  Fils-Aimé said while reaffirming his commitment to restoring security in the country. “My greatest salute goes to the youth I see here today, engaged with reading. It is through literature that they’ll be able to make wise choices for their future.”

But the remark — one he has made many times before — comes as many are losing patience and faith in the countrys governing body’s security plan and its ability to resolve any other ongoing issues. Just days earlier, residents of the Central Plateau dismantled part of the Péligre power system in protest after gangs tightened their grip on Mirebalais and surrounding communes.

For many at the fair, literature may offer inspiration — a brief escape that shifts the mind from reality — but it cannot replace the safety they’ve been promised and still await.

Below are more images capturing the atmosphere of the Livre en folie : 

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