The festival takes place at a variety of venues across Stoke Newington. Photo: Stoke Newington Literary Festival
The fifth annual Stoke Newington Literary Festival commences this Friday, and will be running events throughout the weekend. The festival, taking place at a variety of venues across Stoke Newington, brings together both writers and readers to learn, share and celebrate a common love of literature.
The events and programs are broad and diverse, including readings, lectures, workshops, comedy and family events. From panel talks on crime writing to workshops on how to write for young audiences, the festival tries to encompass the diverse and expansive literary world.
The festival brings together writers and readers to share a common love of literature. Photo: Stoke Newington Literary Festival
Friday evening kicks the festival off with a gala hosted by comedian Josie Long, co-founder of Arts Emergency, and film critic Mark Kermode. The night will feature performances by authors, Joe Dunthorne, (Submarine, Wild Abandon), NikeshShukla (Meatspace, Coconut Unlimited), Schmoovy, among others. Also taking place on Friday is a panel talk titled ‘Killer Girls’ in which some of the leading female crime writers will open up to explain their processes and why this genre is so well, thrilling.
The panel will be led by MJ McGrath, author of the Edie Kiglatuk series. Here, audiences will also have a chance glean insights into Kate Rhodes’ debut novel, A Killing Of Angels; as well as hear from Lucy Atkins author ofThe Missing One, and Charlotte Williams’ The House On The Cliff.
The program includes readings, lectures, workshops, comedy and family events. Photo: Stoke Newington Literary Festival
Saturday offers a full day of events as well. Daniel Rachel will give readers a sense of what it’s like to interview some of the world’s most famous musical acts, while The Science of Star Wars will “explain how one of the most successful epics in entertainment history may actually anticipate real-life future science, right here on Earth.”
For aspiring writers, a variety of workshops are also available. On Saturday an event titled ‘How Do I Get Published,’ will provide helpful tips for writers trying to get their work into the world.
For those looking to break from their writers block, another workshop on Saturday called ‘Never be stuck for an idea again,’ will offer tips and strategies on making the right creative choices.
For more information on the festival and specific events, go to the Stoke Newington Literary Festival at http://www.stokenewingtonliteraryfestival.com
