Sir Christopher James Hampton joins us at the World of Words festival in Gstaad, bringing a legacy of dramatic storytelling that spans decades. A British playwright, screenwriter, translator, and film director, Christopher is renowned for his play "Les Liaisons Dangereuses," based on the novel of the same name, and its film adaptation. Beyond his contributions to theatre, Christopher has been honored with two Academy Awards, highlighting his exceptional skill in adapting narratives for the screen. His distinguished career has significantly influenced both theatre and cinema, earning him recognition as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (FRSL). Christopher's presence at WoW Gstaad is not just a celebration of his storied career but also offers attendees an invaluable perspective on the art of adaptation and storytelling across mediums

It is with great excitement that we announce Georgi Gospodinov as one of the distinguished guests at this year's World of Words festival in Gstaad. As a Bulgarian writer, poet, and playwright, Georgi's contributions to literature have been widely recognized, most notably through his novel "Time Shelter," which clinched the 2023 International Booker Prize, shared with translator Angela Rodel. This work, along with his acclaimed novel "The Physics of Sorrow," which received the Jan Michalski Prize and the Angelus Award, showcases his unique ability to weave complex narratives. Georgi's attendance is a celebration of his international acclaim and his contribution to the literary world

We are thrilled to welcome English novelist and screenwriter Louise Doughty to this summer's World of Words event in Gstaad. Her work is a rich portfolio of storytelling that includes bestsellers such as 'Apple Tree Yard', the award-nominated 'Whatever You Love' and the New York Times Notable Book of the Year 'Black Water'. She is also the author of the how-to-write book 'A Novel in Year', based on her popular newspaper column and a former judge of many literary prizes in the UK including the Booker Prize. She is a cultural critic and broadcaster whose work has been translated into thirty languages. Her presence promises to add a profound depth to our literary discussions and inspire attendees with her remarkable journey in books and screenwriting.

We are thrilled to feature Swiss author and journalist Seraina Kobler at this year’s World of Words in Gstaad. Born in 1982 in Locarno, Seraina has enriched the Swiss literary scene with her compelling narratives and sharp insights into social issues. After working as an editor for several prestigious newspapers and specializing in social topics at the "Neue Zürcher Zeitung," she ventured into freelance writing and creative writing instruction.

Her literary debut, Regenschatten, received a nomination for the "Weinfelder Buchpreis" and garnered support from various foundations, including the Federal Office of Culture. Seraina's first foray into crime fiction, Deep, Dark Blue, published by Diogenes Verlag, captivated readers and remained on the Swiss bestseller list for months.

Seraina's work has earned her multiple accolades, including the essay prize from "Der Bund" and the "Genuss Buch Award". Residing in Zurich and Lausanne with her family, Seraina continues to be a dynamic presence in both the literary and journalistic fields.

Her participation at WoW Gstaad is eagerly anticipated, as she is set to offer valuable insights into the intersections of literature, journalism, and societal discourse, inspiring both readers and aspiring writers alike.

We are excited to welcome Colombe Schneck, she is the author of eleven books of fiction and non-fiction, she has received prizes from the Académie Française, Madame Figaro and the Society of French Writers. The recipient of scholarships from the Villa Medicis in Rome and the Institut Français, as well as a Stendhal grant which allows French writers to do research and write abroad, she also spent fifteen years as a broadcaster for Canal Plus, France TV and Radio France. She was born in Paris in 1966 where she still lives, is a graduate of Sciences Po and Université de Paris II with a degree in Public Law.

Her latest book, published in French and English, Swimming in Paris - a life in three stories has been described as “Beautiful . . . a gorgeous meditation on the vagaries of being alive.” Her previous award-winning books include: Magazine de la mort Heureuse, Le Vieux qui déjeunait seul, Nuits défendues.

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