Centre for New Writing rolls up sleeves for all-virtual Manchester Literature Festival

The Centre for New Writing is delighted to be hosting a number of events with the Manchester Literature Festival this year, which is going digital for the first time since its inception in 2006. 

Taking place over three days, the literature festival will run 17 digital events during the weekend of Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October, and although the number of events is slightly reduced this year, this digital weekend of words will continue to inspire, showcasing and celebrating some of the best in contemporary writing from across the world.

The programme will feature intimate conversations, talks from authors, poets and activists, new commissions, family-friendly activities and projects for young creatives, with huge names including renowned writers Ali Smith, Angela Davis and Nick Hornby.

The Centre for New Writing is proud to partner with the Manchester Literature Festival and Creative Manchester this year with a selection of exciting partnership events taking place over the weekend.

On Friday, the festival kicks off with contemporary writers Daisy Johnson & Sophie Mackintosh in conversation with Jeanette Winterson and The Shadow King author and booker prize shortlist Maaza Mengiste in conversation with Kamila Shamsie.

Contemporary poets Romalyn Ante, Will Harris & Nina Mingya Powles take the virtual stage on Saturday reading from their debut collections, and established authors Tayari Jones & Brit Bennett in conversation with Ellah P. Wakatama will be talking about their latest novels, Silver Sparrow and The Vanishing Half. On Sunday, Ali Smith will be in Conversation with Kamila Shamsie followed by the one and only icon and activist, Angela Davis in conversation with poet, Jackie Kay.

You can see the full list of Manchester Literature Festival events here.