Most of the refugee stories we read about in the media are negative. But the reality for those fleeing persecution is more often about the emotional scars of torture and the struggles of building a new life. A Country of Refuge, an anthology of new writings by leading British and Irish writers, is intended to directly challenge the negative press given to those seeking a safe haven on these shores as well as serving as a testament to the strength of the human spirit. A Country of Refuge aims to make a positive and vital contribution to the national debate.
Human rights activist and writer, Lucy Popescu will talk about the inspiration behind, crowd-funding and publishing of the anthology and read some extracts. She is joined by Sue Gee who will read from her contribution. Sue is an acclaimed novelist. Reading in Bed, (2007) was a Daily Mail Book Club selection; The Mysteries of Glass (2005) was long listed for the Orange Prize for Fiction. Sue has also published many short stories, some of which have been broadcast on BBC Radio 4. Sue currently teaches at the Faber Academy and is a mentor with the Write to Life group at Freedom from Torture. Her latest novel Trio is published by the award-winning Norfolk-based publisher, Salt.