The Norwich Book Festival will take place from October 24 to 30, highlighting the transformative power of books. Now in its third year, the festival has grown into a major regional celebration of literature featuring seven days of author talks, family activities, and literary events across the city.
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This year’s program includes over 50 events encompassing a variety of genres such as fiction, history, politics, poetry, children’s literature, and contemporary culture. Notable authors such as Adele Parks, Kate Mosse, Louise Doughty, Joanne Harris, and Jill Dawson will participate, showcasing a wide range of storytelling styles from historical narratives to suspenseful drama.
Attendees seeking unique viewpoints can hear from Irenosen Okojie and Emma Glass, who will discuss modern folklore, while Rosie Hewlett presents a sapphic retelling of The Odyssey. The festival will also cater to fans of crime and thriller genres with appearances by Sophie Hannah and Harriet Tyce, who gained recognition from the BBC program The Traitors.
Local influence is strong this year as crime writer JM Dalgliesh will discuss his latest work in the Hidden Norfolk series. Additionally, poet Lewis Buxton will converse with online poet David Larbi about creativity and finding meaning in everyday life.
The festival also features a robust selection of non-fiction discussions, with historian and broadcaster Greg Jenner alongside historians Dr. Kate Lister and Jonn Elledge. Topics will range from football refereeing and artificial intelligence to political discourse and business leadership, with speakers including political commentator Iain Dale and retail entrepreneur Mary Portas. Game of Thrones star Hannah Murray and Irish author Louise O’Neill will also share their personal stories.
A highlight for families will be the children’s program, featuring popular children’s author Jacqueline Wilson, illustrator Rob Biddulph, and others during the October half-term. The Imaginarium will return to The Forum's Atrium, offering four days of free activities aimed at engaging young readers with books and creativity.
Last year’s festival attracted over 32,000 visitors, demonstrating the strong interest in literary events in Norwich and Norfolk. Collaboratively presented by The Forum, National Centre for Writing, Norfolk Library and Information Service, and the University of East Anglia, the festival aims to strengthen Norwich's literary legacy and foster connections through reading.
Ailsa McKay, event producer, expressed gratitude to festival partners and patrons. She noted the growth of the event since its inception in 2024 and aims to offer something for every type of reader. For more details, interested individuals can visit norwichbookfestival.co.uk.