As you know, we are a very proud partner in Leeds Lit Fest (LLF21). The Library has programmed a series of events to engage and entertain you – from politics to creative writing to crime fiction to film and theatre!
We’ve two excellent political writers appearing beginning with Ian Dunt on Wednesday (7pm). His book How to Be a Liberal, is a rallying cry for those who still believe in freedom and reason. In a soaring narrative that stretches from the English Civil War to the 2008 financial crash and the rise of populism, Ian will talk through the epic story of the development of liberal thought. He is an author, political journalist and broadcaster, the editor of politics.co.uk and a host on the Remainiacs podcast.
On Friday (7pm), LBC radio presenter, Iain Dale examines why we’ve all become so disrespectful and intolerant in Why Can’t We All Just Get Along. His book of the same title is part-memoir, part-polemic and looks at the state of public discourse in Britain and the world today. Using experiences from his career in politics and the media, he says it doesn’t have to be this way, and suggests how we can all emerge from tribalism and division and become more respectful to each other and those who govern us. He is an author, broadcaster, political commentator, blogger, podcaster and so much more!
We know crime fiction is a hugely popular genre with readers and we have two exciting authors to tempt you with on Sunday. Join award winning journalist, Saima Mir (1pm) as she talks about her critically acclaimed, debut crime thriller The Khan. Set amongst the British Pakistani community in a northern city, it features an unforgettable female protagonist – a London barrister who is drawn back into her father’s gangland world when he’s found murdered. Followed by Tim Glister (5pm) discussing his debut novel, Red Corona, a gripping Cold War spy thriller about the beginning of the surveillance era, spanning 3 countries: Britain where MI5 agent Richard Knox is trying to find out who put his boss in a coma; Russia where a brilliant scientist makes a breakthrough that could change the world and the US where a young CIA recruit is determined to make a difference.
If you are new to creative writing or indeed a practised hand then join us for an overnight creative writing workshop (midnight Saturday – 6.00am Sunday) led by our popular Speaking to the Shelves curator Becky Cherriman. A group of people meet at midnight. Where do they meet, why and what happens when they do? You will answer these questions and others before embodying a character and shaping their path through this collective story. Be prepared to take creative risks, write collaboratively and stay up till dawn.
And because we are all missing going to the cinema and theatre performances, we have a special silent film screening on Saturday (7.30pm) of The Hound of the Baskervilles with live piano accompaniment from Jonny Best. Finally, as is our tradition with Leeds Lit Fest, we close the programme with a theatre performance. Don’t Go Into The Cellar theatre company perform their Strictly Sherlock livestreamed from the Library (Sunday, 7.30pm).
Leeds Lit Fest events, except for two workshops, are free to watch. We just ask that you consider making a donation to help support us and ensure that the Lit Fest is here for you for years to come.
All of these great events and so much more, including ticket registration, can be found at: www.leedslitfest.co.uk.
