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A Feast for the Mind in Poole

Poole's Word and Book Festival, now in its third year, will take place from 1-11 October. This year's festival mixes readings, poetry, discussion and workshops with food, music, art and dance in an intoxicating celebration of literature.

There will be a diverse line up of authors, poets and storytellers appearing in venues throughout Poole from Lighthouse and the Central Library to our bookshops, schools and day centres.

Festival goers will have the chance to meet TV presenter and food writer, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and hear Fay Weldon talk about her new book Mantrapped. Miranda Seymour, author of the acclaimed Bugatti Queen will tell of the 'fast' life of Hellé Nice, the beautiful racing driver of the 1920s while Mary Turner will look the incredible changes which have taken place in the lives of women during the 20^th Century. Satish Kumar, editor of Resurgence Magazine, will speak on Taming Terrorism and local author Alan Chedzoy will 'larn uz' about the Dorset dialect.

Celebrated actress, Janet Suzman will be playing the mercurial and tormented Elizabeth I recounting the story of her life, while a less serious evening's entertainment will be provided by Les Merton's mix of comedy, dialect and poetry. Literature will combine with the exotic tastes of a Moroccan buffet in an evening of readings from the Arabian Nights and belly dancing in the Sahara Restaurant. There will be an opportunity to have afternoon tea with Kadija Sesay, Cosmpolitan Woman of Achievement, and learn about her work promoting black British authors. For those who want to get involved, the festival events include be a poetry slam, workshops where budding writers can hone their skills and even an edible book competition!

Children will enjoy the opportunity to meet Nick Arnold, author of the bestselling 'Horrible Science' series and fantasy author, Elizabeth Kay. Also performance poet Nii Ayikwei Parkes and Australian poet Mick Leigh will be taking part in schools events during the festival.

For details of all the events pick up a programme from around town or order a copy by calling 01202 633973 or download it from www.pooletourism.com .

Rachael Mills, Media Relations Officer, Marketing Services, Borough of Poole, tel 01202 633295