A new literary festival, Heywood House Talks, is set to take place next month, offering an impressive line-up of speakers, including Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling authors in psychotherapy, journalism and history, a Booker Prize judge, and one of the UK’s top satirists.
The two-day literary extravaganza will take place on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September and promises to be an unmissable event for book lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike, set against the backdrop of the historic Heywood House.
“The festival will be held in the stunning Jacobean hall of Heywood House, providing a perfect setting for this literary celebration,” said organiser Ryan Child. “Each day offers a unique programme, with Saturday focusing on contemporary issues and Sunday delving into historical and cultural discussions.
“Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leading thinkers and authors in a beautiful historic setting. Tickets are available now, and early booking is recommended to secure your place at this exclusive event.”
Saturday highlights
Tim Marshall will kick off the festival on Saturday with a talk about his latest book, The Future of Geography. Marshall, a renowned author and geopolitical expert, will explore the shifting dynamics of space politics and its implications for our world. Tim is the Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author of Prisoners of Geography and former Diplomatic and Foreign Affairs editor at Sky News.
Joining him on Saturday will be Sarah Churchwell, a leading voice on American politics. Churchwell will provide insights into the future of America, addressing questions such as what happens if Trump wins? What happens if he doesn’t? How will American politics affect the UK and Europe in the near future? Sarah will answer these questions and more with Hannah MacInnes.
Rosie Holt, a British actor, comedian, and satirist famous for her viral political satire videos, will also be speaking. Holt’s sharp wit and keen observations have made her a prominent voice in contemporary political commentary.
The day’s events will be hosted by Hannah MacInnes, a seasoned interviewer and moderator known for her work with the How To Academy and Times Radio.
Sunday highlights
Sunday will feature a diverse range of speakers, including Dan Jones, who will be kicking off his new book tour for Henry V – England’s Greatest Warrior King. This will be the first chance to get the book. A popular historian and author known for his bestselling books on the Plantagenets, the Templars, and the Middle Ages, Jones is also a well-known TV presented and journalist.
Dr Sue Stuart-Smith, a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and author of The Well-Gardened Mind, will explore the therapeutic benefits of gardening and its impact on mental health. She will be in conversation with Clare Asquith, an independent scholar and author of Shadowplay: The Hidden Beliefs and Coded Politics of William Shakespeare. Asquith will also host her own talk on Shakespeare and his role in Tudor resistance to the monarchy. Chris Blackhurst, an award-winning writer and former editor of The Independent, will discuss his book on Manchester United, examining its status as the world’s biggest cash cow.
“This exciting event will run over two days inside the historic Jacobean hall at Heywood House,” added Ryan. “Saturday’s day ticket includes a two-course lunch, while Sunday features four individual tickets at just £12.50 each. Food traders from around the world will create a real festival atmosphere, and book signings will be run on both days by Frome’s independent bookshop, Hunting Raven Books.”
Tickets can be purchased from Hunting Raven Books, Cheap Street, Frome, or by calling 07508 961383 or online via visit www.heywoodhousetalks.co.uk where extra information can also be found. Ticket prices are £12.50 per talk on the Sunday, and £120 including three speakers, Q&As and a two-course lunch for a day ticket on the Saturday.
Join the community in celebrating literature and culture at Heywood House Talks Literary Festival, and be inspired by leading authors and thinkers in an idyllic setting.
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