October 15

Application deadline: Stage slots for professional programme at Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2026

NORLA invites proposals for professional programme events on the Norwegian stage at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, 13–16 April 2026.
Non-commercial organizations that promote Norwegian and Sámi children’s literature, illustration, and reading are invited to apply to present their own events aimed at a professional audience. Selected contributions will form part of Norway’s official Guest of Honour programme.

Application deadline: 15 October 2025.

Please note that the invitation is open to non-commercial associations and organizations that promote Norwegian or Sámi literature, illustration, and culture for children and young people and/or projects that address issues related to children and reading.

Read more here

Upcoming activities

November 14-November 16
Shanghai, China

Norwegian Participation at the Shanghai Children’s Book Fair

NORLA is taking part in the Shanghai Children’s Book Fair with a stand designed for meetings and professional networking. The two illustrators/authors Øyvind Torseter and Marianne Gretteberg Engedal (Skinkeape) will participate in the fair’s professional program and panel discussions. Both also serve on the jury for the Norwegian illustration exhibition at Bologna 2026.
In addition, several Norwegian publishers/agents will take part.

The initiative is carried out in collaboration with the Royal Norwegian Consulate in Shanghai.

December 3-December 5
Rome, Italy

Networking Event and Launch of the Guest of Honour Program during the Rome Book Fair Più libri più liberi

The book fair Più libri più liberii is dedicated to small and medium-sized publishers, and NORLA is looking forward to participating for the second time – focusing on Norway’s Guest of Honour initiative at Bologna 2026 and on Norwegian children’s literature in general. And just like last year, we are hosting a networking event and gearing up for Bologna 2026 by launching the Guest of Honour concept and program. Also, Norwegian agents will take part in the fair’s fellowship and/or be present in the rights centre. The program is organized in collaboration with the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Rome.

In the lead-up to the book fair, we are organizing a full-day seminar for Italian translators and Norwegian language students from universities in Italy. The seminar will take place at Casa delle Traduzioni, and participants will have the opportunity to meet author and illustrator Malin Falch. The sessions will be led by established Italian translators of Norwegian literature.