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Six acclaimed writers, including bestselling H Is for Hawk author Helen Macdonald, will speak at Ipswich's The Hold during a two-day literary event in May.
Why it matters: The festival brings together renowned authors whose works span historical fiction, memoir, science fiction and social justice – offering local readers the chance to engage directly with writers of Suffolk Libraries' specially selected DiscoveReads books for 2025.
The big picture: Suffolk Libraries has partnered with Suffolk Archives and the University of Suffolk to deliver the expanded programme at The Hold on Ipswich's Waterfront, featuring author talks, workshops, archive exhibitions and behind-the-scenes tours.
By the numbers:
Six featured authors
Two days of events (24-25 May)
Six recommended DiscoveReads books
£3 early bird tickets available until 1 May (rising to £5 after)
The details: The festival will feature five of the six DiscoveReads authors speaking at The Hold:
Syd Moore (The Grand Illusion)
Helen Macdonald and Sin Blaché (Prophet)
Jyoti Patel (The Things That We Lost)
Amelia Gentleman (The Windrush Betrayal)
Elizabeth Freemantle (Disobedient)
Additional activities include writing workshops on historical fiction led by Dr Amanda Hodgkinson from the University of Suffolk, and archive rummages exploring topics from Windrush communities to UFOs, witches and 'disobedient' women.
What they're saying: Lisa Brennan, Literary Events Lead at Suffolk Libraries, said: "Our annual DiscoveReads book promotion begins in April where we will be highlighting six recommended titles by six brilliant authors. We are delighted that each author is also taking part in an author event as part of the promotion which includes an amazing two-day book festival which is taking place at The Hold in Ipswich. It will be a fantastic opportunity for readers to meet the authors of the books and ask their questions."
What's next: Following the festival, a free online event with author Jill Dawson, discussing her book The Bewitching, will take place on 4 June.
The bottom line: Between April and June, the six DiscoveReads books will be displayed at Ipswich County, Felixstowe, Woodbridge and Needham Market libraries, but can be borrowed from any Suffolk library.
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