The National Book Council organised a summer book festival on the campus of the Gozo Junior College Sir Michelangelo Refalo in Victoria. Apart from stalls set up by various local publishers, visitors had the opportunity to meet with the  authors and listen to them read excerpts from their works.

One of the events was a commemoration of Gozitan poet Ġorġ Pisani (1909-1999). A discussion was chaired by the poet’s son, author Paul George.

Joe Camilleri, poet, novelist, art critic and a former student of Pisani, spoke about the poet’s contribution to Maltese literature. He also spoke about Pisani as a teacher, dramatist, Information Department official and a promoter of the arts in Gozo.

Dr Pisani spoke about his father’s dedication to the education of Gozitans, his concern for the well-being of his fellow citizens and his constant attention to the promotion of the Maltese language. Gozitan history and traditions as well as  Pisani’s literary output were also highlighted.

Several authors were present for the discussion, including Kenneth Wain, Immanuel Mifsud and Maria Grech Ganado.