The joy . . .

. . . of words.

It’s quite a while since we’ve been to the Edinburgh Book Festival but, with the Keswick Festival being cancelled and missing out on the Hay, I made a definite plan to get to Edinburgh this year. We chose two days where both of us could go to a few talks we would be interested in. And what an excellent day we have had today.

The Festival has moved from where it has always been - Charlotte’s Square - to the Art College, but great use has been made of the buildings and gardens. It was good to see so many children running about clutching books and taking part in storytellings, author meetings and activities. A lovely atmosphere altogether, despite the occasional shower.

So, some excellent talks - highlights:

Martin MacInnis (see extra) superb conversation with Stuart Kelly about his book ‘In Ascension’ which both of us have read and enjoyed and which is on the Booker Longlist for a good reason. Fascinating to listen to him about it.

Gordon went to a talk by Ned Boulting about his finding of a bit of film about the 1923 Tour de France race. He, amongst many others, came out of this saying how brilliant it had been - it must have been as he immediately bought the book and queued to get it signed, striking up several conversations with other enthusiasts along the way. (Slight correction - I bought the book for him whilst he queued).

Our final talk this evening was Eleanor Catton interviewed by Nicola Sturgeon - a superb duo. The event was a sellout and the packed crowd was so enthusiastic.

A lovely, inspiring day with plenty of time to sit in the sunshine and read.