Edinburgh International Book Festival
AUG 14–30, 2010
The Edinburgh International Book Festival brings writers, poets, thinkers, politicians, photographers and artists from around the world to debate, discuss, argue and inspire. Over 800 events take place in the wonderful setting of Charlotte Square Gardens in the historic heart of Edinburgh, the world's first UNESCO City of Literature.
The leading names in literary and non-fiction writing attract thousands of visitors of all ages to debate, discuss and discover new horizons, take part in creative workshops and, of course, to meet favourite and new authors. Amid the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh in August the magical tented village in a beautiful New Town square, creates a unique Festival environment, an oasis of calm where ideas, opinions and insights take centre stage.
Each year the Edinburgh International Book Festival attracts around 200,000 visitors for 17 days of what is the world's largest public celebration of the written word. Running alongside the general programme is the highly regarded RBS Children's Programme, which has grown to become a leading showcase for children's writers and illustrators. Incorporating workshops, storytelling, panel discussions, author events and book signings, the RBS Children's Programme is popular with both the public and schools alike and now ranks as the world's premier books and reading event for young people.
"Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers."
- Charles W. Eliot
Featured videos
Cheri Blair
Barrister and judge, mother and Prime Minister's wife, Cherie Blair's journey from working-class Liverpool to the heart of the British legal system, via Downing Street, has been a remarkable one. In the keenly awaited Speaking for Myself, she gives a warm, intimate and amusing account of a life shaped largely by a fierce sense of justice.
Mark Millar
Mark Millar candidly discusses comics, graphic novels and Hollywood. His bestselling comic Kick-Ass is being made into a film this year produced by Brad Pitt; Wanted 2 is in development after the success of his blockbuster adaptation; and there is talk of a re-imagined Superman appearing on the big screen. If this wasn't enough, he is currently working on the next instalment of his bestselling and controversial American Jesus graphic trilogy. Irreverent, iconoclastic, inimitable, Mark Millar's unique brand of energetic storytelling is not to be missed.
Frank Skinner
Comedian, writer, presenter, ardent football fan and expert on Samuel Johnson, Frank Skinner has produced his second memoir. In "On the Road", he lays bare the absurdities, anxieties and adrenalin rushes of being a stand-up comic. A poignant and funny insight into a remarkable career. Frank also appears at this year's Fringe with "Frank Skinner's Credit Crunch Cabaret": a series of variety shows starring award-winning comedians, musical acts and variety performers.
Fiona Miller
One of the biggest challenges facing women is how to combine work and family life. Fiona Millar has worked as a journalist and an advisor to Cherie Blair, is the long-term partner of Alastair Campbell, and she has also raised three children. She discusses how she managed to juggle these all-consuming roles, and looks into the pressures and opportunities for women today who want to have a family without abandoning their career aspirations.
