Dublin Book Festival 2017
Celebrating the wonder of the written word – Dublin Book Festival 2017
As the long evenings stretch ahead, what could be more comforting than curling up on the couch with a good book? And to help you create the perfect reading list the Dublin Book Festival 2017 has some of Ireland’s most talented authors ready to help you with your choice. This gem of a festival is in its eleventh year. There are events happening all over Dublin ready to delight from 2nd – 9th November. On www.inspireme.ie we have many of the highlights featured. Or for the full listing check www.dublinbookfestival.com. Below are just some of our favourites.
Shaw, Joyce and Literary Greats
On Thursday 2nd the amazing venue which is Smock Alley will be hosting a live broadcast of RTE Radio 1’s Arena programme. Join Sean Rocks as he hosts an evening of music, readings and stimulating conversation. Fintan O’Toole will discuss the literary genius of George Bernard Shaw. While Dermot Bolger takes on the life and works of James Joyce. With many more guest speakers on the night, this event will entertain and educate in equal measure.
Lunchtime Literature
They say there is a book in everyone. So if you are sitting in the office on Friday 3rd looking for inspiration why not head to the National Library for The Art of the Short Story. This lunchtime event will see talented authors Christine Dwyer Hickey, Martin Malone and Sean O’Reilly discuss the craft of short story writing. Under the guidance of Paula Shields, a top arts journalist and researcher for RTE, this alternative to a soggy sambo at the desk might just set you on your own literary path.
An Evening of Autobiographies
What if you can’t escape the desk at lunchtime? Then on your way home on Friday evening stop off on the Gutter Bookshop, voted the best independent bookshop in all of Ireland and the UK, for The New Autobiography. Three up and coming writers – Kevin Breathnach, Niamh Campbell and Sinead Gleeson – will be in conversation with Brendan Barrington. They will talk about their work and the realities of writing an autobiography in present-day Ireland. You will never read an autobiography again without appreciating the detailed craftsmanship that goes into them.
Walk and Talk
On Saturday 4th you can get your literary education while you walk, in the company of some expert guides. Author and historian Liam Collins will retrace the footsteps of revolutionary and politician Michael Collins as he struggled for Irish Independence in the early 1900’s. This gentle walking tour through historical Dublin City will open your eyes to our recent past. Or join author Pat Liddy as he strolls the ancient streets of Temple Bar and its surrounds. As you stroll you will hear some of the stories and writers inspired by historic Dublin.
Super Saturday
One of the highlights on Saturday afternoon is sure to be everyone’s favourite hotelier Francis Brennan in conversation with RTE’s Rick O’Shea. He will reveal the secrets of How to Create a Happy Home. In his own unique way, everyone’s favourite hotelier shall take you on a tour of the house, room by room, giving tips and insights that will ensure domestic bliss for ever after. Or for those who prefer the darker side of life, don’t miss Cracking Crime at Smock Alley on Sat afternoon where some of the top crime writers including Sam Blake, Helen Moorhouse and Julie Parsons will explore their craft.
Sunday Highlights
Amongst Sunday’s highlights is a seminar in Smock Alley entitled Parenting in the Modern World. This is sure to be a popular event. The afternoon will be hosted by some of the top parenting gurus of the modern age – Aileen Cox Blundell, Stella O’Malley and Lucy Wolfe – in conversation with journalist Roisin Ingle. You will be sure to pick up some helpful tips on how to navigate the years ahead. A full night’s sleep sound tempting anyone? Also on Sunday 5th Eileen Battersby, literary critic with the Irish Times will be discussing her wonderful new novel ‘Teethmarks on my Tongue’ with Declan Meade.
Fun for All Ages
As well as so many events for the older reader, there is also a jam packed programme of events for children. Throughout the festival there are treasure hunts starting from Smock Alley where you can follow their fiendish clues around Temple Bar and return to base to claim your prize. Fancy dress is welcome and there will be prizes for the best costume.
Any budding artists can help complete the Big Picture wall with Ireland’s Laureate na nÓg PJ Lynch. This is just one of a series of massive story walls created by children all over Ireland. Let your little Picassos be part of the bigger picture. Or help them relive your childhood memories with Red Rover, Red Rover. Author Kunak McGann will be on hand to take the audience (old and young) through some classic games from an Irish Childhood. Who needs a tablet when you could be playing marbles, elastics, musical statues and lots more?
These are just a small sample of the events that will be taking place to celebrate Dublin Book Festival. Be sure to check out the full programme. The organisers have thought of everything and everyone.
Don’t forget to visit www.inspireme.ie regularly to find lots of inspiration for things to do in your own locality. You can sign up here to receive regular updates on what’s on in your area. Finally, all events and details listed were correct at time of going to press. But please check with the organisers for updates before you travel.
