Eight years ago we set up a literary festival in Beverley to bring the best writers we could find to this beautiful part of the country. We wanted to celebrate the arts of writing and reading. We believed that talking about books allowed people to approach ideas and emotions that were not everyday topics of discussion but which shaped all our lives.

Since then the festival has grown, but our commitment to creating intimate events in which authors and readers of all ages can truly talk to each other remains constant.

Whether you want to find your own words, or find yourself transformed by the words of others, we hope you'll join us in the East Riding of Yorkshire for what looks like it's going to be an inspiring Beverley Literature Festival 09.

John Clarke
Festival Director

Jane Gardam Cancellation
Due to ill-health, Jane Gardam has had to withdraw from this year's festival. She sends all those who've booked for her events her sincere apologies. She'd have loved to have come to Beverley and plans to attend the festival next year if possible. We wish her a speedy recovery. If you have tickets for this event, contact the place of purchase and they will arrange a refund or a ticket for an alternative event should you wish it.

Some Festival Highlights

Will Self, Jane Gardam, Iain Banks, A.L. Kennedy, Gervaise Phinn, Michael Frayn, Sarah Dunant, Francis Wheen, Jim Cartwright, Brian Keenan, Virginia Ironside