Book festival’s line-up for July promises something for everyone

Organisers of the Baillie Gifford Borders Book Festival have announced a cracking line-up for its free online July programme.
Paul MurtonPaul Murton
Paul Murton

Highlights for this month include journalist and broadcaster Kirsty Wark in conversation with former Vogue editor and fashion legend Alexandra Shulman, an evening with award-winning crime superstars Mark Billingham and Chris Brookmyre, and back to reminisce about 15 years of joyful nights spent entertaining the packed-out marquees at Harmony Gardens in Melrose is Rory Bremner.

The July programme will be rolled out every Sunday from July 12, presenting a lively blend of entertaining and thought-provoking events, live on www.bordersbookfestival.org

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There will be something for all the family to get involved with in the morning, followed by entertainment from the world of literature and stage and screen later in the day. #

Mark BillinghamMark Billingham
Mark Billingham

Alistair Moffat, festival director, said: “We’ve worked hard to bring some of our unique festival magic to the virtual stage and are excited to present a sparkling mixture of headline hitters and festival favourites to keep the festival alive, albeit online.

“We’ll have more treats to unveil throughout the summer months thanks to the continued support of Baillie Gifford, McInroy & Wood, Creative Scotland and Scottish Borders Council, as well as other sponsors and Friends of the Festival”

Here is the full line-up for July ... Sunday, July 12: 11am – A drawing and book-making workshop for all the family from illustrator and children’s author Jill Calder. 4pm – Suzanne Mulholland (aka The Batch Lady) shares her culinary secrets. 7pm – Writer and festival director, Alistair Moffat, in conversation with festival favourite Rory Bremner.

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Sunday, July 19: 11am – Performance poet Joseph Coelho and illustrator Fiona Lumbers with Luna Loves series for youngsters aged four and above. 4pm – Kirsty Wark in conversation with fashion legend Alexandra Shulman. 7pm – Acclaimed author and broadcaster James Naughtie explores the America he has known for 50 years ... its allure and its contradictions, its strengths and some painful legacies that weigh so heavily on its people.

Rory BremnerRory Bremner
Rory Bremner

Sunday, July 26: 11am – Chris Lloyd uncovers curious connections for all the family with Humanimal. 4pm – Writer and festival director, Alistair Moffat in conversation with documentary film-maker Paul Murton on his personal journey to Orkney and Shetland Islands. 7pm – Chris Brookmyre interviews Mark Billingham as he celebrates his 20th book and 20 years of crime writing.

The programme of 40 author talks and workshops will continue on Sundays throughout August and September, with additional special midweek events featuring authors from the Baillie Gifford series and the McInroy & Wood Lecture.

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