EIBF 2008: Saturday 23rd August

An enticing start to the day. Derek Johns follows his critically acclaimed debut Wintering with Wakening, a coming-of-age novel set in post-war Glastonbury. Journalist Kate Muir’s West Coast is a wickedly enjoyable novel about a celebrity artist rediscovering his roots in a small Scottish town. Susan Irvine’s Muse captures the dazzling lights and the dark side of the fashion industry.

Everyone has a novel in them, but where do you start? This workshop will address the problem of assembling your characters, plots and themes into a publishable work. A confidence and enthusiasm boosting session with Laura Marney, who has written four novels including Only Strange People Go to Church and My Best Friend Has Issues. (Maximum 20 places)

Due to extraordinary demand, Alexander McCall Smith will be appearing at an additional event at this year's book festival. This event is not listed in the printed programme.

Doyenne Scottish crime writer Alanna Knight encouraged identical twin sisters Helen and Morna Mulgray to write their delightful witty thriller series which features an investigator from HM Revenue & Customs. Join the three Edinburgh authors as they discuss collaboration, writing at all stages of life, and the perfect murder.

We are delighted to launch an outstanding memoir of childhood by one of the UK’s finest writers, Janice Galloway. Against a vividly evoked Ayrshire in the 1960s, This is Not About Me describes growing up in a single parent family and how a silent but observant child began to find her voice as an artist. Chaired by Richard Holloway.

The joyous return of one of ourmost popular visitors. Carol Ann Duffy epitomises the very spirit of the Book Festival – generous, open, in love with language. Sit back and listen to one of the most captivating poets in the land.