From November 5th - 9th, Dublin Book Festival returns with over 100 events taking place in venues all around Dublin City. Here's our pick of 10 must-see events at this annual celebration of Ireland’s writers, illustrators and publishers...
The opening night is always a special one, and this year’s festival kicks off by celebrating The Dublin Review at 100, with a stellar line-up featuring contributors Patrick Freyne, Doireann Ní Ghríofa, Mark O’Connell and Sara Baume with editor Brendan Barrington; with special music guests on the night, it's also going out as a live broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1's Arena (Wed 5th Nov).
Irish speakers have plenty of events to choose from this year; award-winning poets Aíne Ní Ghlinn and Rita Ann Higgins join current Laureate for Irish Fiction, Éilís Ní Dhuibhne, for a bilingual poetry event in the National Library of Ireland (Thu 9th Nov).
Across two campuses, over two days, the festival spotlights some of today’s most urgent themes. On Wed 5th Nov at TU Dublin Grangegorman, a day discussing sustainability and social issues includes a panel discussing the suffering of the Palestinian people. On Thu 6th Nov, DCU St Patrick’s hosts Class Acts, with authors including Elaine Feeney and Lisa Harding exploring class and identity.
Swing by the DBF After Dark Festival Club where you can mingle with fellow book lovers and enjoy author chats - or even listen to authors as they ditch the pens and hit the decks, playing music of their choice! (Bartley’s Lounge in The Grafton Hotel. Thu 7th - Sat 8th Nov)
Nature lovers can make a day of it at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, with events including The Culture File Debate: The Hare’s Corner, where poet Jane Clarke, author Catherine Cleary, illustrator Jane Carkill and composer Colm Mac Con Iomaire join Paddy Woodworth to explore the value of making space for nature to thrive once again (Sat 8th Nov).
Always wondered why we all love a good thriller? Join bestselling authors Marie Cassidy and Gill Perdue as they delve into what makes crime writing so alluring for readers and writers alike The Festival Hub in IMMA Venues, Sun 9th Nov).
There are many walks to join this year, bringing literature out into the streets and gardens of Dublin. Join acclaimed poet Colm Keegan for WalkShop, a writing workshop on the go using the stunning grounds and gardens at IMMA as your muse (Sun 9th Nov).
History lovers will enjoy a number of captivating discussions, including authors Kevin Rafter and Lin Rose Clark discussing their latest books, which illuminate fascinating life stories from history (IMMA Venues, Sun 9th Nov)
A trio of bestselling contemporary fiction authors, Faith Hogan, Sheila O’Flanagan and Sophie White, join fellow author Edel Coffey to explore the changing face of women’s fiction and how it continues to go from strength to strength (Sun 9th Nov, at IMMA Venues)
With a full free weekend of family friendly events taking place at IMMA Venues, featuring readings, storytelling, writing, crafts, draw-alongs, and more, there'll be something for all ages to enjoy. Highlights include a writing workshop with award-winning author (and master of villains between the pages) Dave Rudden (Sun 9 Nov at IMMA Venues)
Also: the DBF celebrates the life and legacy of RTÉ Arena host Seán Rocks, whose support of, and involvement with, the Dublin Book Festival spanned more than a decade. Seán's invaluable contribution to celebrating and championing the arts in Ireland inspired countless audiences and artists alike. Authors Kevin Barry and Kathleen MacMahon, poet Paula Meehan, and composer and musician Colm Mac Con Iomaire join Paula Shields in conversation as they remember his enduring influence and generosity.
The Dublin Book Festival runs November 5th - 9th 2005 - find out more here
