Despite various changes at this year’s Amar Ekushey Book Fair, readers’ enthusiasm for books by established and popular writers remains unchanged. Alongside veteran authors, several young yet well-known writers have also maintained their readership amid the rise of new literary voices.

Stalls featuring the latest books by celebrated authors have been drawing large crowds, with readers eager to purchase copies signed by their favourite writers.

Hafsa Zaman, a visitor at the fair, shared her excitement after buying books by Imdadul Haq Milan.

She picked up “Poradhinota” from Anyaprokash and “Rohossomoy Jongolbari” for her son, saying Milan’s simple yet vivid storytelling and deep psychological insights make his novels a must-read.

Monirul Haque, publisher of Anannya Prokashoni, said they have released only one new book by Imdadul Haq Milan this year.

“Rohossomoy Jongolbari”, a novel for young readers, follows the story of a boy named Arnab who repeatedly dreams of a jungle house, a ruined building, and a large lake. The plot unfolds as Arnab finds himself inside the mysterious house in real life.

“Poradhinota”, on the other hand, is based on Milan’s experiences in Germany, portraying the struggles of a Bangladeshi expatriate. First published early in Milan’s career, the book has been reprinted this year due to continued demand.

Harishankar Jaladas has returned to the fair with his latest novel, “Shupornokha”, a continuation of his series on Mahabharata characters. Many readers were seen collecting his autograph at the Oitijjhya stall.

Asked whether his turn to mythological figures is a departure from the themes of social struggle that defined his earlier novels, Jaladas explained that his new works are still rooted in the same ethos.

He pointed out that the characters in “Sworgosundori Urboshi”, “Eklobyo”, “Korno”, “Upekkhito Shita” and “Shupornokha” were all neglected figures in Mahabharata, just as his earlier novels highlighted the struggles of marginalised communities.

He said his latest works aim to educate readers while continuing his passion for shedding light on the underprivileged.

Jaladas also commented on the future of young writers, expressing concern that many visitors at the fair seemed more interested in taking selfies than buying books. However, he acknowledged that he follows the works of emerging writers and often shares his feedback personally.

Readers have shown particular interest in novels that address common yet underexplored themes. Prothoma has released “Nishi Trener Bhut” by Anisul Hoque, a political novel questioning the actions of the ruling class.

Anyaprokash has published “Acharjo o Tar Olik Pandulipi” by Swakrito Noman, which tells the story of a young writer accused of stealing his mentor’s manuscripts—a novel centred on the struggle to prove innocence.

Short story collections have also gained attention.
Shahnaz Munni’s “Prison Deluxe Tour”, published by Kothaprokash, presents 17 short stories on both classic and contemporary issues, marked by concise sentences and precise word choice.

Among the new romance novels, Sadat Hossain’s “Tumi Sondhya Olokanonda”, published by Anyadhara, has exceeded sales expectations. The book explores the theme of waiting—not just for time to pass but for a lost emotion to return. Shofiqul Islam, a salesperson at Anyadhara, confirmed the book’s strong reception.

Other notable works attracting readers include “Rastro Biplobe Subhash Chandra Bose” by Serajul Islam Chowdhury, “Waiting Room” by Hasnat Abdul Hye, “Rup Naraner Kule” by Ahmed Mostafa Kamal, “Ghorer Dike Jaoa” by Afsana Begum, “Biswa Sahitya Bhason: Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi” by Mohiuddin Mohammad, and “Nilanjana Tokhon” by Shanjana Alam.

On the 17th day of the fair, a discussion titled “Life and Works: Al Mahmud” was held on the main stage, chaired by Mahbub Sadik. Majid Mahmud presented the keynote paper, with Musa Al Hafiz and Kazi Nasir Mamun participating as discussants. Later, poets Matin Boiragi and Fazlul Haque Tuhin discussed their new books at the Lekhok Bolchi stage.

According to Bangla Academy, 113 new books were released on Monday.

On the 18th day of the fair, a discussion on “Life and Works: Shahid Qadri” will be held at 4pm on the main stage. Tarana Nupur will present the keynote paper, while Shams Al Momin and Ahmed Mazhar will join the discussion, chaired by Hasan Hafiz.