Travel writer Stuart Maconie and crime author Sophie Hannah coming to Wirral for annual Bookfest celebration of literature

Sep 26 2012 by Lorna Hughes, Heswall News

WRITER, journalist and broadcaster Stuart Maconie and bestselling author Sophie Hannah are among the famous names coming to Wirral for an annual celebration of literature.

Bookfest 2012 will see established and new writers giving special readings and talks at libraries across Wirral from Monday, October 8 to Saturday, October 13.

There will also be tips for budding writers and talks on local history, archaeology, short stories – and local celebrities.

Marilyn Stevenson will start the festival on Monday, October 8 with a talk at Irby Library about the lanes and footpaths which show Wirral’s hidden past.

Renowned crime writers David Jackson and Sophie Hannah will visit Bromborough Civic Centre the same day at 7pm.

Cllr Chris Meaden, cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure, said: “The events we have got planned for this year’s Bookfest are really exciting.

“As well as the famous names, we also have events involving local history, poetry and opportunities for library visitors to get tips and advice on improving their own writing technique.

“This will be our biggest Bookfest yet.”

Writers from closer to home at Bookfest 2012 will include Kevin Sampson, author of Awaydays and Powder, who will be at Birkenhead Central Library on October 11.

There will also be talks from Wirral’s own Viking expert and author Professor Stephen Harding, local historian Jim O’Neil on Hoylake then and now and Dr Rob Philpott as he explores the archaeology of Wirral.

The Reader Organisation’s Angela MacMillan will also present a talk exploring the joy and power of reading aloud.

Comic, poet and singer Rob Barratt will entertain with verse, song and satire at Wallasey Central Library while Ray O’Brien, author of Street Stars, will share amusing anecdotes.

More information on 606 2665 or at www.wirral.gov.uk/bookfest