Today at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, these two book fairs open. 390 Thai and international publishers are scheduled to attend. Publishers from 11 countries will participate in the international section. Britain is named the country of the year. Most publishers offer books at discount during these fairs. The convention centre is normally packed with people, and this weekend I would expect many thousands to attend. If Siam Paragon pulls down the shutters to avoid the demonstrations held outside, shopper may decide it is time to buy a good book.