Melbourne Writers Festival returns in May for four days of storytelling, panels and talks.
A panel of experienced world travellers dive into the purpose of travel, and why it brings us pleasure. Hosted by celebrated writers Richard Fedler, Kris Kneen, Adam Liaw and Vicky Shukuroglou, who share stories of their own globetrotting exploits. An excellent discussion for all travel lovers to spark their interest in exploring the world.
Sentimental Journeys is on Sunday May 7 at The Capitol, 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne, at 12pm.
In an educational and informative panel, panellists will discuss the reciprocal relationships First Nations peoples have had with plants for millennia. They explore the materials needed to make a variety of complex technologies and the depth of Indigenous knowledge on the intricacy of these partnerships. You’ll hear from author and researcher Zena Cumpston, geographer and scientist Michael-Shawn Fletcher, geographer Lesley Head and writer Bruce Pascoe.
Plants: Past, Present and Future is on Sunday May 7 at The Capitol, 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne, at 1:30pm.
Best-selling author Jane Harper, known for her novel The Dry, returns with her highly anticipated novel Exiles. Her latest work is set in regional South Australia’s wine country and explores the disappearance of a young mother. Harper discusses writing Exiles with Radio National’s Sarah L’Estrange. There’ll be great insights for writers interested in hearing about Harper’s creative process.
Jane Harper: Exiles is on Saturday 6 May at Bunjil Place Theatre, 2 Patrick NE Drive, Narre Warren at 6:30pm.
Interested in learning the art of editing? In a special live recording of ABC’s radio show Conversations, you’ll hear all the tips and tricks about editing with Benjamin Dreyer. Dreyer’s time as the vice president, executive managing editor and copy chief of Penguin Random House US has given him industry-leading expertise into editing and publishing. Interviewed by Richard Fidler, Dreyer will give insight into editing and his love of language with wit and wisdom.
Conversations with Richard Fidler is on Sunday May 7 at State Library Village Roadshow Theatrette, 179 La Trobe Street Melbourne at 4:30pm.
Listen to authors discuss Australian writers who have influenced and inspired them throughout their careers. Award-winning author Nam Le, The Bookshelf host Kate Evans and Black Inc Publisher Chris Feik will chat with Boisbouvier Chair in Australian Literature Tony Birch, as they discuss their experiences writing about their literary heroes and what readers can gain from learning about celebrated authors.
Writers on Writers: Readers of Australian Literature is on Sunday May 7 at State Library Conversation Quarter, 329 Swanston Street Melbourne, at 4:30pm.
Melbourne Writers Festival runs from May 4 to 7. You can view more information and the full program here.
Photography: Brook James
