Norwich is a City of Stories and a UNESCO City of Literature, home to the National Centre for Writing and one of the world’s most prestigious creative writing courses. Bookshops are scattered through the shopping streets and historic lanes. And this month sees the inaugural Norwich Book Festival – bringing together literary partners across the city to celebrate the power of stories.
There are over 40 events taking place from Thursday 24 October – Sunday 27 October. We’ve picked out one event each day to give you a taste of what’s to come.
Thursday 24 October: Books Can Change the World with Lauren James and Liz Jensen
The bold title of this event is the perfect kick-off to the four-day festival. Acclaimed authors and ecological activists Lauren (Wren) James and Liz Jensen, join forces for an inspiring conversation on the power of words, and how literature can be used for radical change. They’ll share empowering stories of hope and rebellion as they turn the spotlight on the climate crisis, and explore why fiction is one of the best ways to inspire passion, empathy and action.
Friday 25 October: Elizabeth II: A Queen for Generations
Writer Craig Brown introduces his unforgettable, fascinating and witty biography celebrating Queen Elizabeth II. Combining biography, essays, cultural history, dream diaries, travelogue and satire, A Voyage Around the Queen artfully captures the multiplicity of Queen Elizabeth II, and the world’s fascination with her: from Andy Warhol to E.M. Foster
Saturday 26 October: Of the Flesh
A perfect pre-Hallowe’en evening of stories that will curdle your blood, haunt your dreams and redefine terror. Join authors Michel Faber, Louisa Young, and Irenosen Okojie at atmospheric Dragon Hall as they share extracts from the new modern horror short story collection, Of the Flesh. From a hungry young woman who is not what she seems, to a boy who has taken his mother’s advice a little too seriously and a new home with a sinister secret, this collection plumbs the depths of the psyche and dredges up some very modern horrors.
Sunday 27 October: Deception Island
Norwich Book Festival is much more than just author talks, this immersive event takes you into your own story. Step inside an exact replica of a 1950’s Antarctic hut and be transported to Deception Island, through the power of poetry, sound and film. As you interact with the island, you will gain an understanding of just how far human impact can reach.
Find out more and explore the full calendar of events at norwichbookfestival.co.uk
