The annual literature festival returns with a host of big names
Image: Elizabeth Day by Jenny Smith
The art world is setting its arms wide for the return of Hexham Book Festival, the North East’s most-loved literary celebration this April. Having squeezed through an array of COVID-related obstacles over the last three years, it’s finally back to its pandemic-free groove, with talks from authors, poets, journalists and other literary gurus set to educate and inspire.
Highlights include an appearance from Anne Cleeves, who will be giving a talk on her new novel in the hugely acclaimed Vera series, as well as a spine-tingling show by crime writing expert, Alexander McCall Smith. With the current financial climate in mind, gain new much-needed insights into personal finance with Paul Lewis, from Radio 4’s Money Box, who will be sharing his 40 years of knowledge on better saving strategies. While How To Fail podcaster and author Elizabeth Day will no doubt provide some interesting insights.
The festival also offers creative opportunities for children through its sister event, Storyland, with workshops, interactive novels and talks with local stars, such as Julian Norton from The Yorkshire Vet, to instil younguns with an abundance of new ideas, understandings and fun. A terrific line-up, this festival is a bright and beautiful colour to add to your calendar, with book-ets (see what I did there?) of exciting things to watch out for!