FOOD & DRINK, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFE & TRAVEL
The 28th annual Sydney Writers’ Festival (SWF) has offered its first tantalising glimpse of the 2025 programme, giving us plenty to look forward to ahead of the festival’s return from 19–27 May.
As the leaves turn and autumn settles over the picturesque spa town of Ilkley, the longest-running literature festival in the north of England opens its doors once again. Now in its 51st year, the Ilkley Literature Festival, which began on Friday, 4 October, promises a rich tapestry of events and discussions that will captivate and inspire literature lovers from across the UK. Spanning 17 days and featuring around 90 events, the festival will take place at the historic King’s Hall and various venues throughout Ilkley, offering attendees an opportunity to engage with a diverse array of voices and ideas. From novelists and poets to journalists and historians, this year’s festival lineup is as eclectic as it is impressive. Among the highlights of the opening weekend is an appearance by Caroline Lucas, the former leader of the Green Party. Lucas will delve into the complex themes of national identity and reclaiming Englishness from the clutches of aggressive nationalism in her thought-provoking talk, “Another England.” The King’s Hall will also host Adrian Chiles, the former presenter of The One Show, who will share his unique insights and humorous takes on British life. Drawing from his popular Guardian columns, Chiles is sure to entertain and provoke thought in equal measure. Adding to the dynamic lineup is Vanessa Kisuule, an award-winning slam poet and dedicated Michael Jackson fan, who will explore the highs and lows of fandom in an engaging conversation about hero worship. Meanwhile, journalist Paul Caruana Galizia will offer a poignant account of his family’s ongoing quest… Read More
Buckle up, bookworms! The 2024 Ilkley Literature Festival is back, bigger and better than ever, with a lineup that’ll have you scraping your jaw off the floor. From 4 to 20 October, the charming spa town of Ilkley will transform into a literary wonderland, hosting an array of poets, novelists, chefs, historians, politicians, children’s authors, biographers, journalists, and yes, even the odd national treasure. Hold onto your reading glasses, because this year’s festival is set to be an unforgettable page-turner. Kicking things off is the legendary Kate Atkinson, who will launch her new Jackson Brodie book, Death at the Sign of the Rook, in an exclusive event with Grove Bookshop on 18 September. But that’s just the preface. The festival will feature over 90 events across 17 days, with venues like King’s Hall buzzing with literary excitement. Get ready for headline acts that are as varied as your bookshelf. Julian Clary, Susie Dent, and Shirley Ballas are set to dazzle with their debut murder mystery novels—because why not shake things up a bit? American novelist Jodi Picoult will be presenting her latest work, By Any Other Name, while Booker-prize winner Alan Hollinghurst celebrates his first book in over a decade, Our Evenings. If you’re a fan of culinary delights, Prue Leith’s cookbook, Life’s Too Short to Stuff a Mushroom, is a must-see, alongside Gyles Brandreth’s exploration of happiness in Happiness in Just a Minute. Erica Morris, the festival director, sums up the excitement: “We’re excited to welcome big names and big ideas as we once… Read More
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is thrilled to announce the 10th annual Melbourne Art Book Fair (MABF), a prestigious celebration honouring art book publishing and Melbourne’s distinction as a UNESCO City of Literature. Commencing today and continuing until 2 June 2024, the fair will animate multiple venues across Melbourne and Victoria with an exciting array of book launches, discussions, exhibitions, and more. Highlighting the event is a special in-conversation session with renowned art historian Katy Hessel, alongside a vibrant TV gameshow pop-up and a showcase featuring art and design publishing from across Australia and beyond. Esteemed British author and art historian Katy Hessel, known for her influential podcast “The Great Women Artists,” will engage with NGV Curator of Contemporary Design and Architecture, Simone LeAmon, for a live discussion titled “Katy Hessel in Conversation: The Story of Art Without Men” on 29 May. This program, presented by NGV and The Wheeler Centre, will delve into Hessel’s critically acclaimed book, “The Story of Art Without Men,” which explores the often overlooked contributions of women in art history, reflecting her extensive work in uncovering female artists’ narratives from Australia and around the globe. Moreover, the fair will celebrate the launch of NGV’s newest publication, “Observations: Moments in Design History.” Acclaimed design critic and author of “Design as an Attitude,” Alice Rawsthorn OBE, will discuss the socio-political implications of modern design with Sarah Teasley, sharing insights into how contemporary designers are tackling the pressing challenges of today’s society. From 24 to 26 May, the Great Hall at NGV… Read More
This year marks a remarkable milestone for Ilkley Literature Festival, the longest-established literary festival in the North. The festival, steeped in a rich poetic tradition, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. From 6th to 22nd October, the small Yorkshire spa town of Ilkley will bathe in the glow of literary fervor, hosting around 100 author events spanning over 17 days. This year’s headline acts flawlessly blend the old and the new, featuring celebrated authors like Jacqueline Wilson, Jeanette Winterson, Clare Balding, Simon Armitage, Gyles Brandreth, and Monica Ali. The lineup also brings laughter and lightness with comedian Shaparak Khorsandi and presenters Melanie Sykes, Helen Skelton, Anton Du Beke, and Ray Mears. A good number of journalists will be sharing insights from their latest books, including Gavin Esler, Luke Harding, Samuel Kasumu, Tim Marshall, James Naughtie, Grace Dent and Polly Toynbee. International literary stars have also graced the event, with Bryan Washington, winner of the 2020 International Dylan Thomas Prize, making his first ever in-person event in the UK at Ilkley to discuss his latest novel, “Family Meal.” C Pam Zhang, whose novel “How Much of These Hills Is Gold” was named one of Barack Obama’s favourite reads in 2020, will be talking about her latest book, “Land of Milk and Honey.” Founded in 1973 by the revered poet W.H. Auden, Ilkley Literature Festival has consistently championed poetry, hosting performances from illustrious poets including Philip Larkin, Ted Hughes, and Carol Ann Duffy. This year, it continues its legacy by providing a platform for new and emerging poets…. Read More
Prepare yourselves, culture and history enthusiasts, for an enchanting evening at the Barbican in London with none other than the eminent scholar, Mary Beard. Known for her engaging storytelling and profound insights, Beard will guide us on an unparalleled intellectual adventure. This night is set to be a celebration of the rich tapestry of past civilisations, and the resonance of their narratives in our present times. Here’s more about what to look forward to After the very recent release of her new book, Emperor of Rome, a riveting exploration of Roman history, from its humble beginnings to the pinnacle of its power. We will hear from Beard, with her characteristic wit and profound knowledge, as she paints a vivid picture of life in Rome during the reign of its most famous emperor. This gripping narrative, rich in detail and brimming with insights, is a testament to Beard’s storytelling prowess and her deep understanding of the past. It’s more than just a history book; it’s an immersive journey into an era long gone. Readers will find themselves right at the heart of Rome, amidst the grandeur, power struggles, and everyday life of its people. Emperor of Rome is not only an essential read for history enthusiasts but also a captivating tale that will enthrall any reader. Don’t miss this chance to experience Rome like never before, through the eyes of a master storyteller. Set within the architectural marvel that is the Barbican, this enriching evening promises to be anything but ordinary. Not only will you have… Read More
Prepare for a journey into the heart of Rome as Mary Beard, the eminent historian and classicist, is back with her latest book, Emperor of Rome. This riveting masterpiece promises to deliver an unparalleled deep-dive into the intriguing world of Roman emperors, a subject that has long fascinated readers. Beard’s exceptional storytelling prowess, coupled with her profound understanding of Roman history, sets the stage for illuminating insights into the lives of the most powerful individuals of ancient Rome. From their political machinations to their personal intrigues, Beard unravels them all with a deft touch. Emperor of Rome is also poised to shatter conventional wisdom, offering fresh perspectives on the infamous rulers’ reigns and their impacts that reverberate to this day. With Beard’s impeccable scholarship and lively narration, expect to be transported back in time, witnessing firsthand the spectacle of Rome under its emperors. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual reader, Emperor of Rome is a must-read. It invites you to immerse yourself in the grandeur, the drama, and the unvarnished realities of Rome’s imperial past, seen through the discerning lens of Mary Beard. So, brace yourself for an enthralling exploration of an epoch that continues to shape the course of history. Buy Emperor of Rome here Feature image
Modern Stoicism: Top 5 Books to Help You Live a More Meaningful Life Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy, has been gaining popularity in recent years as a practical approach to living a more mindful and fulfilling life. The principles of Stoicism emphasise the importance of self-control, rational thinking, and mindfulness to achieve inner peace amid the chaos of everyday life. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 books on modern Stoicism that can help you incorporate these principles into your daily routine, and ultimately, lead a more meaningful life. All the books are on sale, too! In conclusion, these top 5 books on modern Stoicism offer practical insights and exercises to help readers live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Whether you’re new to Stoicism or a seasoned practitioner, these books are sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration.
The new book from Lonely Planet Food, titled “Gourmet Trails.” This book offers a fresh perspective on the traditional cuisines of Europe, including local specialities and creative modern-day chef creations. With 40 foodie trails to choose from, travellers can indulge in both indulgent and affordable itineraries that cater to their unique tastes. Lonely Planet’s team of writers has curated an exquisite showcase of Europe’s epicurean countries, tailoring itineraries that celebrate vibrant local produce and the creative minds that deliver these culinary delights. Whether you’re foraging in the woods, trialling a country cooking class, tasting pungent cheeses, quaffing local wines, discovering local tavernas, tasting wild food, or bartering at a local market, this guide celebrates the best of Europe on a platter. The book covers popular and lesser-known food and wine stops throughout Europe, providing readers with the best places to stay, cool restaurants and bars, where to eat, what to do along the way, and local culture, including festivals and celebrations. Each trail features 6-8 must eat and drink stops, suiting a shorter getaway or jaunt of two to three days. Itineraries include a route map, photography, and planning information such as how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit. There’s also the chance to experience celebrated producers, sample local specialties, and learn about the history of regional dishes. Some of the highlights of this book include Alsace’s Route des Vins, an introduction to the Corsican pantry, delving into Danish pastry in Copenhagen, tasting the seasons in… Read More
Twelve Caesars by Mary Beard is a brilliant and engaging historical account of the lives of twelve Roman emperors. The book is a remarkable feat of scholarship that brings to life the personal and political complexities of these powerful men. Already want to read it? Kindle is doing a free 30 days – try it now Mary Beard is an acclaimed historian and classicist who has written several books on ancient Rome. In Twelve Caesars, she explores the lives of the emperors who ruled Rome from Julius Caesar to Domitian. The book combines meticulous research with a lively and accessible writing style that makes it both informative and entertaining. One of the strengths of the book is the way Beard situates the biographies of the emperors within the broader historical context of the Roman Empire. She provides an insightful analysis of the political, economic, and social changes that occurred during the reign of each emperor. She demonstrates how their personal ambitions and flaws influenced their decision making and contributed to the successes and failures of their reigns. Another strength of Twelve Caesars is Beard’s ability to draw out the human side of the emperors. She vividly portrays their personalities, quirks, and foibles, making them seem like real people rather than just historical figures. One of the most memorable aspects of the book is the way Beard describes the extravagant and often bizarre behavior of the emperors, such as Nero’s obsession with theatre and Caligula’s penchant for dressing up as a god. Through the stories of… Read More
