The Melbourne Writers Festival is gearing up for an exhilarating week of literary exploration, set to take place from May 6 to May 12, 2024.
The Melbourne Writers Festival has unveiled a diverse and captivating program that promises to be a treat for book lovers and aspiring writers alike.
This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of local and international literary talents, making it one of the most anticipated literary events in Melbourne. The program, led by outgoing Artistic Director Michaela McGuire, features Pulitzer and Booker Prize winners, New York Times bestselling authors, and exciting debut guests from around the globe.
Melbourne Writers Festival 2024
- May 6 to 12
- This year’s theme is “Ghosts”
- Various venues
- Tickets are on sale now
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Under the theme of “Ghosts,” the festival will delve into a myriad of topics, from ghostly characters and ghostwriters to enduring stories that continue to haunt us. Festival curators Mykaela Saunders and Ziggy Ramo have also curated events that envision different futures for our world and explore the essence of humanity.
One of the highly anticipated guests is acclaimed US author Ann Patchett, making her first visit to Australia in over a decade. Patchett, known for her bestsellers like Tom Lake and The Dutch House, will be joined by fellow author Meg Mason for a discussion on their past works and literary influences.
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Japanese writer Toshikazu Kawaguchi, whose novels have garnered international acclaim, will also make his Australian debut at the festival. Fans can look forward to hearing Kawaguchi discuss his beloved works and the upcoming TV adaptation of his novel.
Irish novelist Paul Lynch, fresh from his Booker Prize win, will grace the festival with a special event discussing his latest work, Prophet Song, a cautionary fable about society on the brink.
Other notable international guests include eminent British philosopher A. C. Grayling, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen, American novelist Bryan Washington, and Glasgow-born Andrew O’Hagan.
The festival’s local lineup is equally impressive, featuring a trio of writers whose new releases are set to spark conversations and challenge perspectives.
Wik and Solomon Islander rapper Ziggy Ramo will share insights from his debut memoir, while bestselling author Bruce Pascoe will discuss his poignant new book, Black Duck, alongside partner Lyn Harwood.
Australian of the Year Rosie Batty will also share her journey of healing and advocacy in her memoir “Hope,” offering a powerful narrative of resilience and social change.
With a wide range of events, workshops, and discussions exploring diverse themes and perspectives, the Melbourne Writers Festival promises a week of intellectual stimulation, creative inspiration and meaningful conversations. Book enthusiasts and literary aficionados won’t want to miss this enriching and thought-provoking experience.
Browse the full program and get your tickets here.
