After 50 years, The London Book Fair (LBF) has become an essential part of the international book trade calendar and is the pre-eminent Spring event of the publishing year.
Exhibitors and visitors return year-on-year to develop relationships, gain insights, and set the tone for the year ahead.
– The London Book Fair
The London Book Fair 2026 (LBF), held from March 10–12, 2026, at Olympia London, once again brought together thousands of professionals from across the global publishing industry. As one of the most anticipated events in the international book trade calendar, the fair continues to serve as a dynamic platform where publishers, authors, agents, and content creators converge to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and shape the future of publishing. With strong international participation and a diverse range of exhibitors, this year’s event reaffirmed its role as a central hub for innovation and collaboration within the industry.
The International Rights Centre serves as a dedicated space for rights negotiations and professional meetings, where publishers, agents, and scouts connect to discuss new opportunities and secure deals. It remains one of the busiest areas of the fair, reflecting the ongoing demand for international rights and content exchange. For more than fifty (50) years, the London Book Fair has played a vital role in the publishing ecosystem, bringing together established industry leaders and emerging voices in a setting that supports both business development and creative collaboration.
Beyond its commercial significance, the fair also offers a rich intellectual experience through its extensive seminar program. Across stages such as the Main Stage, Author HQ, and the Literary Translation Centre, attendees gain insights into some of the most pressing topics in publishing today, including sustainability, diversity and inclusion, digital transformation, and the evolving global market for books. Special features such as the Writers’ Summit provide authors with guidance on navigating the publishing landscape, while the Academic and Professional Publishing Conference allows for deeper exploration of scholarly and professional publishing trends. These sessions are complemented by recognitions that celebrate excellence and innovation, reinforcing the fair’s commitment to advancing the industry.
In line with its advocacy for literacy and access to reading, the fair continues its support of The Reading Agency, a UK-based organization dedicated to improving lives through the power of reading. By working with libraries, schools, and community groups, the organization reaches millions of individuals each year, promoting the transformative impact of books on well-being, opportunity, and social connection.
Amid this vibrant global gathering, ARPress proudly participated in the London Book Fair 2026, presenting a curated selection of titles that reflect its commitment to diverse voices and meaningful storytelling. Through its presence at Olympia London, ARPress actively engaged with international publishers, literary agents, and rights professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration, translation, and wider distribution of its authors’ works. The company’s participation highlights its ongoing efforts to expand its global footprint, strengthen industry partnerships, and position its titles within the international market. By investing in major events such as LBF, ARPress continues to champion its authors, increase brand visibility, and bring compelling stories to a broader readership.
Among the titles featured was Why I Have Chosen Jesus over My Father’s Voodoo by Adolph Dagan, a personal account of faith, conviction, and spiritual transformation. The book traces Dagan’s journey from a childhood shaped by voodoo practices to a life grounded in Christianity, shaped by a decision that set him apart from his family’s long-held traditions.
Dagan shares what it meant to grow up in an environment where spiritual identity was already defined for him. As the son of a voodoo practitioner, he was expected to follow the same path. His story centers on the moment he began to question those expectations and the internal conflict that followed as he encountered Christian teachings and felt drawn toward a different belief.
That turning point became the foundation of the book. Dagan writes about the cost of choosing faith on his own terms, including the fear of rejection and the strain it placed on family relationships. His decision is presented not as a rejection of his roots, but as a commitment to what he believes is truth and freedom.
The book also gained attention through a feature on CBS Radio, where Dagan was interviewed by Benji Cole on the People of Distinction program. During the interview, he discussed the inspiration behind the book and the experiences that shaped his spiritual journey, offering listeners a closer look at the personal story behind the pages. The program is known for highlighting authors and giving them a platform to share the meaning and purpose behind their work.
An important milestone for the book was its display at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2025, where it was featured in the Book Gallery. The event gathers a wide range of authors and publishers, placing Dagan’s memoir alongside works that explore identity, belief, and personal transformation.
Throughout the narrative, Dagan reflects on the contrast between fear-driven spiritual practices and a faith centered on grace and redemption. He writes about doubt, resistance, and the process of holding onto belief despite pressure from his surroundings. The story speaks of the weight of choosing a path that is not easily understood by others.
Written in a candid and reflective tone, the book presents a story of conviction shaped by struggle, faith, and the willingness to stand by a deeply personal decision. Its presence at the London Book Fair highlights not only its relevance but also ARPress’s ongoing commitment to bringing impactful and empowering titles to a global audience.
The London Book Fair 2026 continues to stand as a vital meeting point for the global publishing community, where stories are shared, collaborations are formed, and new opportunities emerge. ARPress’s participation in this internationally recognized event underscores its dedication to amplifying voices, supporting authors, and bringing impactful stories to readers worldwide, contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of publishing.
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