"Book's Week"
by Sharon Eilon
Ever since 1961, every June, Israel celebrates "Book's Week", or "Shvu'a Hasefer" in Hebrew. For a week, we celebrate the creation of Israeli and Hebrew literature with special discounts in bookstores, but most importantly, we go to the fairs.
In several large cities across the country, large book fairs take place, in which most publishing companies have a stand where they sell their books, usually at cheaper prices. But even better, these fairs can also help small, independent authors gain recognition and sell their books at a stand of their own. Most times, better-known authors also participate in the fairs, offering book signings and a chance to meet a beloved creator.
The people who arrive wander around, searching the stands, asking the salespeople for recommendations. A lot of the time, the salespeople are either familiar with the books they are selling, or they were the ones who wrote them, which allows their fondness of these books to shine through to the buyers.
Some people come with specific books they want to buy in mind, counting on the sales for cheaper prices. Some people come to check every stand for books that will catch their eye. Some people might even come mostly for the positive, enjoyable atmosphere, and aren't planning on buying a lot of books. Either way, the Book's Week fairs have something to offer for everyone, from youngest to eldest, no matter who you are or what your taste in literature is.
Last year, the pandemic didn't allow for the fairs to take place. We were all cooped up in our homes, and, in the face of an ever-changing, unpredictable reality, found escapism and great comfort in our favorite literary works.
This year, we're lucky enough to be able to have had the opportunity to celebrate Book Week properly and be able to find new books to love, and new local authors to support in their journey. The fairs were once again in full swing, and the good atmosphere was once again enjoyed by the large crowds of people from all walks of life.
Sharon Eilon is an Israeli based photographer and an electrical engineer by profession. Following a health crisis, she found herself seeking treatment in India and went through a life-changing journey. After returning home healthy she decided to realize her dream and learn photography. She is fascinated from the world of photography ever since, and she is especially keen about people photography of any kind, whether it is portraiture, street photography or culture photography – anything reflecting the humanity that we all share. For her, the act of photography has a meditative quality, feeling unified with the world around her at the present moment.
Our Challenge: if you’ve got a story you can tell in just a few shots, send it to us at Progressive: (progressivestreetphotography@gmail.com) This is a great chance to express yourself in a special way. You must have had sessions or days where you’ve got a real good feeling about how a story has played out. Could be people you tracked for a while or a day at an event. Your call. Let your pictures tell the story. Share it with us, no less than 5. We’ll share the best on our Website! But remember that words are also important for communicating sensations and your thoughts