Hello booklovers,

So Father’s Day is fast approaching, and if you’re truly floundering for present inspiration you need look no further – your trusty Festival team is here to help! This year we’ve got a fantastic selection of events to keep Dad entertained, so read on for a taster…

Does your Dad fancy himself a budding Bob Dylan? Better get him booked onto Adrian May’s Songwriting Workshop, where he’ll be able to learn the ropes; if he’s feeling brave he could even put himself forward at our Open Mic Night – a Festival first! Adrian will be sharing his own creations with us when he presents some of the work from his new book and CD album, Discovering England.

If Dad has a passion for history, he’ll be spoiled for choice by this year’s programme. We’ve got something to please all history buffs, from archaeologist Brenna Hassett‘s exploration of how humans came to live in cities, to Steve Smith‘s journey through the ups and downs of the Russian Empire. Moving into the 20th Century, Henry Hemming will be offering us a fascinating character study of the infamous MI5 spymaster, Maxwell Knight. Keep an eye on the blog over the next few days for a Q&A with Henry, where he’ll tell us more about his event!

Perhaps your Dad has an inquiring mind? Then he’ll certainly be drawn in by Robert Colvile’s take on how our lives are moving faster and faster, in The Great Acceleration, and he’s bound to be astounded by science blogger Dean Burnett’s inside look at The Idiot Brain.

This is just a snippet of what you can expect from our wonderful programme – we really do have something for everyone. Remember, you can check out the full range of events here.

See you soon!

Rosie and the Book Festival Team

 

Hello booklovers,

So we continue our Christmas Come Early series with a look at a novel which seems all too relevant in our turbulent times. Next summer Richard T. Kelly will be joining us to read from and discuss his new novel The Knives,  which explores the secrets and complexities of modern government, and the struggles that those in the highest ranks of Parliament face. Giving the novel its human heart is protagonist David Blaylock: ex-soldier, estranged husband and father and now Home Secretary. David must navigate the shifty machinations of government, never quite knowing whom he can trust, and all the while becoming more aware of the very real threats to his safety which he must face.

What with the many political upsets which have rocked our nation (and indeed much of the Western world) this year, it seems that this novel is particularly timely. Having spent much time in Westminster and conducted extensive research into the British political world, including interviews with a large number of MPs and special advisors, Richard has gained a unique insight into the political Establishment, which he brings to life in thrilling fashion. Alistair Campbell described this novel as ‘a gripping read from start to finish’, and it’s bound to enthrall both politicos and armchair commentators alike.

Richard Kelly is a journalist, screenwriter and author, and his previous works include the acclaimed Crusaders (2008) and The Possessions of Doctor Forrest (2011). You can find out more about Richard on his blog here.

If you’re looking for the perfect topical gift this Christmas, why not snap up a ticket now for what’s sure to be a fascinating debate? The talk will be taking place on Saturday 1st July, 5.30-6.30pm, and tickets cost just £8 (£7 concessions). What are you waiting for?

Rosie and the Festival Team