Jay Rayner, John Boyne and Joanne Harris to headline return of Farsley Literature Festival
Farsley Literature Festival returns for its fifth year this autumn, bringing food critics, bestselling authors, murder mystery workshops, and family events to West Yorkshire across six weeks
Food critic Jay Rayner, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas author John Boyne, and Chocolat writer Joanne Harris will headline the fifth annual Farsley Literature Festival this autumn.
Brought to the village by local independent bookshop Truman Books and venue The Old Woollen, the six-week festival will run from October 12 to November 23 and host more than 25 talks, discussions, and interactive events.
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Renowned food critic Jay Rayner will return to Leeds, where he studied at university, for an intimate evening celebrating his new cookbook, Nights Out In The Kitchen, offering insights into his love for restaurants and home cooking.
Joining him on the headline roster is John Boyne, who will chat about his life, career, and new book, while Yorkshire-born bestselling author Joanne Harris will introduce her new winter ghost story.
The line-up also features internationally bestselling crime author Louise Candlish - who will discuss her latest thriller and the TV adaptations of her books starring Martin Compston, Anna Friel, and Kevin McKidd - alongside David Lascelles, Earl of Harewood, who will reveal a true Second World War family story.
Beyond author talks, the festival includes a dedicated 'Crime Day' complete with a hands-on murder mystery session, a poetry evening exploring northern identity, a discussion on grief with actor Greg Wise, a live flower-arranging demonstration, and a performance of John Steinbeck's classic Of Mice and Men.
Interactive sessions feature a writing for wellness workshop and a Book Lover’s Quiz, while October half-term will see a dedicated Children’s Day featuring four events packed with storytelling and illustration activities.
Kat Harrison, Events and Marketing Manager at Truman Books, said: "So many amazing writers and authors take part in Farsley Lit Fest. Whatever your interests, there's an event that will appeal to you.
"People come from across West Yorkshire, but they also travel from different parts of the country to take part in conversations, be entertained, explore ideas, meet renowned and debut authors, and celebrate books and reading. We have some amazing authors with some really fascinating stories to share, and we can't wait for you to meet them.”
Farsley Literature Festival runs from October 12 to November 23 at Truman Books and The Old Woollen, with tickets on sale now and full schedule details available at the Farsley Literature Festival website.