Hay quotes from last year

'I can't think of any event I've participated in during my 14 years as a published writer where I've felt greater generosity from the audience.' Kamila Shamsie, author of Kartography and four other novels

'Some literary festivals feel only marginal to their countries' concerns. But this one is carrying on a debate central to the future of this young country. With events both in Bangla and English, it offers the opportunity of dialogue both within and between peoples.' Sameer Rahim, assistant books editor at The Telegraph

'Hosting the Festival means greater exchange of ideas and new literary perspectives...greater cooperation and increased exposure for writers and Bangla literature.' Shamsuzzaman Khan, director general, Bangla Academy

'Time is a resource that most of us seem to squander on a fairly regular basis. But like others who attended the Hay Festival Dhaka this year, I feel considerably richer for having spent my time doing so.' Farah Ghuznavi, author of Fragments of Riversong

'The map of the known world has changed for me forever.' Gillian Clarke, poet.