Wide-ranging programme at this year’s Book Fair

27.5.2025 09:00:00 | Church of Sweden | Press release  

Topics for the Church of Sweden’s seminars include how the churches’ historic peace efforts can lead the way in today’s troubled world, how Christians and Muslims can work together to reconstruct Syria, and popular education as an opposing force in an era of polarisation. The Church of Sweden’s Se människan stage will also host children’s theatre for the first time, along with a deep dive into the Star Wars universe. 

“We are looking forward to one of the most varied programmes in a long time – we have a strong line-up on Sunday in particular, wrapping up with a couple of popular and well-known guests,” says Mikael Ringlander, head of the Se människan programme at the Gothenburg Book Fair. “I hope a lot of people will feel inspired to engage with the wide range of events on offer.” 

Author encounters on the Se människan stage 

As usual, there will also be conversations about literature and existential issues on the Church of Sweden’s Se människan stage. Guests include best-selling American author Dan Brown, who will be in conversation with Archbishop Martin Modéus in one of two appearances at this year’s Gothenburg Book Fair. The Archbishop will also meet artist Carola Häggkvist and nature photographer Mattias Klum, the latter being the author of next year’s Archbishop’s Lenten Book. Author Klas Östergren, actor Sissela Kyle and comedian Björn Gustafsson are other names appearing on the Se människan stage, where the focus this year will be on children’s and young people’s literature in particular. 

Literary service of worship on Sunday 

The theme of this year’s literary service of worship is The Power of Love. Author Kristina Sigunsdotter and artist Stefan Sundström will be taking part. The service will be led by Lars Björksell, vicar in Halmstad and broadcast live on Swedish public service radio channel Sveriges Radio P1. 

The 2025 Gothenburg Book Fair will take place on 25–28 September. This year’s themes are Love and Lust, and Drama. 

The Church of Sweden’s full programme for this year is available here (swedish).