The full programme for the Dundee Book Festival, 12-15 June 2025, is now live and tickets are on sale at www.dundeebookfestival.com
The festival raises the roof from the first event with some of the best known crime writers in the world taking to the stage. With Val McDermid on vocals and Mark Billingham, Luca Veste, Chris Brookmyre and the rest of the Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers, it’ll be a gig to remember.
The following evening, local legend Fraser Reid emerges from his fruit and veg shop on the Perth Road to discuss how his soup recipes kicked off a series of books. Enjoy good conversation and a three course meal, inspired by Fraser and cooked by experts, all set in the beautiful McManus Galleries, making this an exceptionally special event.
An unforgettable Saturday evening beckons with three brilliant women. Claire Mitchell KC and Zoe Venditozzi are the founders of Witches of Scotland campaign, securing a legal pardon and public apology for the thousands of women and men who suffered under Scotland’s witch trials. Chaired by former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, they will explores one of the darkest chapters in Scottish history—the persecution of those accused of witchcraft.
Sunday afternoon treats include an event with Mollie Hughes. Mollie has climbed Everest from both sides, skied solo from the edge of the Antarctic, 700 miles to the South Pole through storm-force winds, 8-day whiteouts and temperatures as low as -45. Part memoir, part manifesto, her new book, Breathe, shows how Mollie’s experiences of extremes can help us cope with everyday issues, problems and dilemmas. Inspirational, aspirational and challenging stereotypes as she goes, Mollie joins us to deliver life lessons from the edge of the world to us all.
Over thirty events, over the four days also includes readings and discussion with Ambrose Parry, Chris McQueer, Michael Pederson and many others.
There’s a strong show from local authors including Gary Robertson discussing his life in words, Professors Chris Whatley and Jim Tomlinson talking about Dundee’s history as a centre of textiles, poet Andy Jackson and doctor / poet Jen Dunn.
A day of sci-fi and thrills at Mills Observatory is kicked off in style by Dundee born Doug Johnstone.
All events (except the gig and dinner) are priced at just £5, meaning the festival is accessible and open to all.
For more details about any of the brilliant events, log on to www.dundeebookfestival.com