Wimbledon Bookfest returns from June
The sun is set to rise again in Wimbledon this summer with the return of its literary festival, writes Rachel Griffiths.
Wimbledon BookFest, which this year features Caitlin Moran, Frank Skinner and Ed Milliband among others, is returning with two in-person events – Sunrise from June 9 to 13 and Sunset from September 15 to 19.
The first festival will have 40 talks, readings, and workshops on the subject of poetry, politics, nature, art, fashion and spirituality.
Caitlin Moran will talk about her landmark book More Than a Woman and actor and comedian Robert Webb will discuss his debut novel Come Again, the follow up to his sensitive memoir, How to be a Boy.
For those interested in politics, strategist Alastair Campbell will appear to talk about his new book Diaries (2010 – 2015) and his mental health struggles.
Broadcaster James O’Brien will also bring his personal manifesto for a better way of living called How Not to Be Wrong in conversation with Razia Iqbal.
Costa Book of 2021 winner and Wimbledon resident Monique Roffery will join local writers for readings and discussions from three British and Caribbean literary voices.
Frank Skinner and the Reverend Richard Coles are also set to appear, discussing their latest books.
Children are also welcome and special events for them include an appearance by the much-loved War Horse author Michael Morpurgo who reads his latest picture book A Song of Gladness, as well as Take Me Outdoors, a workshop for young explorers from five years old and up.
For older children, Conrad Murray, artistic director of Battersea Arts Centre’s Beatbox Academy, will run a beatboxing workshop as well as a residency in Merton schools.
Fiona Razvi, festival director, said: “It’s so wonderful to be running live events this summer. Sunrise represents the first of two festivals this year with Sunset coming later in September.
“Wimbledon BookFest is such an important part of the community’s cultural calendar for so many. We are incredibly grateful to Arts Council England and our sponsors and benefactors who have made it possible for us to stage these festivals this summer.”
Wimbledon BookFest: Sunrise tickets are on sale now.
Main Pic: The Rev. Richard Coles