On the centenary of the birth of the term science fiction, the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival renews its event series BookInvaders, dedicated to fantasy and science fiction literature. A rich and diverse program spans a century of stories, ideas, and imaginations, creating a dialogue between the roots of the genre and the voices and perspectives that are redefining its boundaries today.
From the usual exploration of Triestine science fiction to presentations of books, comics, and magazines, alongside crossovers with cinema and video games, the talks span various narrative forms and media. A look at the history of science fiction, its archetypes, and the key figures that shaped its evolution intertwines with the rediscovery of forgotten male and female authors, the highlight of new voices, and the exploration of lesser-known literary traditions.
Special attention will be given to science fiction written by women, within a genre historically dominated by male voices: from pivotal figures like Ursula K. Le Guin and Margaret Atwood to reflections on the social, cultural, and political transformations that women writers have anticipated and depicted, helping to redefine the very boundaries and imagination of science fiction.
Through critical insight, discovery, and discussion, BookInvaders once again celebrates the vitality of a literature that, for a hundred years, has continued to question the present and imagine possible futures.