Founded in 1818, the Société de Lecture (SDL) is a cultural institution nestled in Geneva’s Old Town. Housed in an 18th-century building, the SDL serves as a hub for relaxed intellectual exchange. Functioning as a library with an extensive book collection, the Société de Lecture also hosts diverse cultural events, including a full rich program of literary conferences, debates, workshops, and even yoga classes. Notably, it offers a diverse program for children.
Frédéric Laffont, writer, grand reporter and documentary filmmaker of more than sixty films, won the Prix Albert Londres in 1987. In conversation with Typhaine Marc, he examines intimate and collective histories through reportage and literary inquiry. Laffont explores the address, culture and rituals of the Maison Hermès, tracing its lexicon, myths and temporalities to restitute the spirit of this singular territory. His recent books include Une vie par le menu and Au 24 Faubourg-Saint-Honoré.
In French.
Journalist Patrick Ferla leads a conversation with Jean Liermier, an experienced theatre director reflecting on his long tenure and creative approach. The discussion traces Liermier’s staging choices, visual and sound strategies, and the playful reinvention of season presentations. Attendees will gain insight into the director’s methods, memorable productions and the role of surprise and memory in theatrical curation. The session emphasises artistic process, theatrical language and the relationship between director and audience.
In French.
John Boyne, winner of the Prix du roman FNAC 2025 and the Prix Femina étranger 2025, is an acclaimed Irish novelist and author of numerous novels for adults and young readers. In conversation with Clare O’Dea, he discusses his new epic saga The Elements, which interweaves four interconnected perspectives to examine guilt, blame, trauma and the possibility of redemption. The talk explores Boyne’s narrative techniques, moral inquiry and the ethical questions raised by historical and contemporary fiction.
The lecture will be preceded by an apéritif at 18:30, offering a convivial start to the evening.
In English.
Share a pizza while exploring bold, off‑beat novels chosen for curious 11–15 year‑olds. Through playful games and quick quizzes, participants learn to state their views, sharpen how they read, and name their feelings. Discussion is encouraged in an open, friendly atmosphere: it’s more than swapping favourites — it’s a first step into debating ideas. Sessions are led by editor, bookseller and cultural animator Bertille de Crevoisier.
In French. Teens ages 11–15.
Didier van Cauwelaert, awarded the Prix Goncourt and author of more than thirty-five novels, brings a singular blend of literary, human and spiritual inquiry. In conversation with Marie Cénec, he discusses recurring themes in his work: the afterlife, memory, and the boundaries between imagination and reality. He reflects on recent novels that revisit his early writing years and investigate extraordinary phenomena—from plants communicating at a distance to children recalling past lives—offering a generous exploration of creativity and belief.
In French.
Javier Cercas, acclaimed Spanish novelist born in 1962, speaks about his recent work and approach to contemporary history. Author of internationally translated, prize-winning novels (including The Impostor, The Monarch of Shadows and Terra Alta), Cercas discusses his latest book, Le fou de Dieu au bout du monde (Actes Sud, 2025), written after a Vatican invitation that led him to accompany Pope Francis to Mongolia. The conversation explores authorship, faith, secularism and the ethics of writing about living figures.
In French.
Event removed from your CoolAgenda.
Your password has been reset successfully. You can now log in with your new password.
We’ve sent you a password reset email to the address provided. Please check your inbox and/or spam folder.
Please check your inbox for a verification email to complete your sign-up.
