On Sunday evening I joined the long queue at Wimbledon Book Fest 2017 to see author Salman Rushdie, in conversation with the BBC journalist Razia Iqbal. He was discussing his latest book, The Golden House (published by Jonathan Cape). It was an entertaining and amusing evening, tied neatly into current global events, yet with crucial insights into a writer's personal world.
Wimbledon Book Fest 2017 runs from 5-15 October 2017
In recent years I've visited a number of live author talks (Colm Toibin, Rose Tremain, Kate Atkinson to name but a few ...) and every time I've come away not only with a better understanding of the book in question, but also of the individual thought processes and craft that each writer pursues. It's a brilliant way to achieve a personal insight into the minds of modern-day, working authors. And often the audience questions provide off-the-cuff and entertaining answers, too.
Salman Rushdie and Razia Iqbar in conversation at Wimbledon Book Fest 2017
Attending book talks is also a fabulous opportunity for a book signing. There's something very special about meeting an author face-to-face, and I treasure all the books I've had signed in recent years. Next one my reading list? This one:
The Golden House is published by Jonathan Cape.