It is no secret that Edinburgh is renowned for the Fringe. Every August, performers flock to the city to put on an array of shows. From clowning in the historic streets to Swamplesque, a burlesque, drag parody adaptation of Shrek, there is something for everyone. But what about the booklovers? What about those who desperately desire a break from the overwhelming, claustrophobic crowds? The Edinburgh International Book Festival has got you covered.
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which brings together readers and writers at the Edinburgh Futures Institute in August each year, putting on events like writer and illustrator talks and close readings. It is inclusive of families too, emphasizing activities for children. The proceeds go towards their work with young people, those in hospitals, prisons, and more, promoting reading and writing across Scotland.
My First Experience at The Book Festival
My experience at the Book Festival only began last year. I noticed that bestselling author R.F. Kuang (of books such as Yellowface and Babel) was going to be giving a talk, and I immediately bought a ticket. What I didn’t know was what I was getting myself in for.
When I arrived at the venue, I was surprised. Next to it, people were gathered, sitting at picnic benches and hanging out, whilst the queue that I stood in circled the building. There was only one thought in my mind: I’ve been missing out.
The hall itself was packed. But when Kuang appeared on the stage, it became very quiet. I felt entirely at ease, despite the complicated discussion on stage, because at that moment I realised that reading doesn’t have to be confined to academia. It can be something sought out in the public sphere, alongside readers from all kinds of backgrounds and interests. There was a real sense of inclusivity and community.
My Second Experience At The Book Festival
Fast forward to only a few weeks ago – I was better prepared, or so I thought. This time I brought a friend to share in the festivities, and we booked an event called “Modern Gothic”. This time the venue was located in the heart of the festival, at the Edinburgh Futures Institute. Behind the building, on the lawn, I was surprised to see food stalls, picnic benches, a temporary bookshop, and even a bar.
“Modern Gothic” and New Skin
“Modern Gothic” was a writer talk with Jess Kidd, who discussed her newest novel, Little Spark. This was someone that I had never heard of before. If it weren’t for the Book Festival, I probably wouldn’t have been introduced to her work. As someone who loves Gothic fiction but isn’t familiar with it in this day and age, it expanded my reading horizons.
My friend and I left feeling so inspired. To hear someone talk so passionately was infectious. All of a sudden, I too wanted to write a novel! We got our books signed afterward, meaning that we were able to connect with the writer on a personal level. Again, if it weren’t for the Book Festival, I would never have had this experience. She gave us fiction writing tips and even told us to message her on Instagram if we had any other questions!
I recently finished Little Spark. Whilst reading it, I was more aware of the writing and could imagine how the book was meticulously envisioned and crafted by the real person that I had spoken to. I know that sounds ridiculous, I just mean that I was aware of the writer as a writer. Maybe it was because I now felt inspired to write so I noticed things like her research and style. For me, it was a new way to read a book.
I also went to a talk about New Skin by Sarah Wang. At this point I realised just how exciting contemporary fiction is. I usually spend my time reading older texts, particularly as an English student. As with Little Spark, I was struck by the creativity of these writers, delving into a range of worlds and ages. Truly, literature has never been so diverse.
The Future?
As I left the Book Festival, I looked around at all the people gathered. I know that I said that it is a break from the chaos of the Fringe, but it was actually quite busy on its final day. People were gathered, talking with their friends, whilst a queue for book signings was lengthening. I walked amidst such joy, inspiration, and diversity, knowing that literature is not dying, but in fact blossoming in its own way, if only you know where to look.
So, if the Fringe is on your bucket-list, why not also try the Edinburgh International Book Festival? It is a place for celebrating literature, imagination and thinking. You can even mull things over with a beer at the bar if you wish. It is a safe-place for booklovers, booksellers, and writers alike. Nestled in the Edinburgh Futures Institute, you might just leave it feeling like your world has expanded. I know I did.