Well, I can’t believe it! I’ve been a huge fan of George Saunders for a number of years and even got to interview him in London just before it was announced he won the inaugural Folio Prize (you can read the interview here). Now New Writing North have invited me to share the stage with him at the Radio 3’s Free Thinking Festival 2017 in Gateshead on March 18th. The panel event will discuss the short story with authors who have written both short stories and novels (George’s first novel will be out soon!). The incredibly talented Kirsty Bennett-Logan and Jenn Ashworth will be there also. The event is free which I hope encourages lots of people to come along .

George Saunders at our interview

As part of the festival I’ve been commissioned to write a new story on this year’s theme of ‘The Speed of Life’ to be used during the weekend and to be broadcast on BBC Radio 3. I’m very excited as my first BBC Radio commission was my first big writing break. What’s wonderful about this is, that along with New Writing North and the BBC, Word Factory (of which I’m Associate Director) is also a partner. Lovely synergy. Thanks to all for this opportunity.

PS You can catch me at Word Factory teaching and reading on March 25th.

To find out more about the festival’s weekend of events click here.