EIBF 2008: Thursday 21st August

Renew your love of poetry with this fresh approach to reading with the Scottish Poetry Library. In this relaxed discussion you won’t need any background knowledge; you’ll simply come fresh to the text of single poems, take the time to read deeply and let new discoveries emerge – without the pressure of reviews, criticism and hype. Poems provided. (Maximum 20 places)

Widely published historical author Angus Konstam will outline the practical tools and techniques required for the successful writing of historical non-fiction. For published and aspiring historians alike. (Maximum 20 places)

The celebrated controversial writer Irvine Welsh is back with a brand new novel. Crime tells the tale of Ray Lennox who is cast adrift in Florida, and befriends a young girl in jeopardy. A shocking and gripping story about the corruption and abuse of the human soul and the possibilities of redemption.

Writing for children is far harder than it looks but highly successful authors Nicola Morgan, Linda Strachan and Vivian French will try to reveal both pitfalls and practical opportunities. They have enormous expertise and acclaimin all areas: picture books, educational books, series fiction, chapter books, short novels and teenage fiction and non-fiction. Come to be informed, inspired and have your questions answered.

One of the most perennially popular appearances at the Book Festival is that of Ian Rankin, international bestselling phenomenon, in the city he has made his – and Rebus’s – own. Join the much-garlanded Scottish genius of crime and genial raconteur in an hour of constant delight.