Writers’ Hub September 23rd and 24th in the Festival Mini Marquee

hosted by Word Kitchen -
‘cooking up connection and community through literature and spoken word’

Back again after the success of last year, the Writers’ Hub offers a marquee exclusively devoted to south west writers, wherever they are on their writing journeys. This is a space for writers to write, network and gather information and inspiration in a friendly and welcoming environment. It’s a place to get first hand insights into the world of publishing and the different routes in for authors.

The Writers’ Hub is an exclusive space for pass holders. The pass allows access to everything on offer. Daily panel discussions will feature industry professionals and experienced authors, with southwest publishers and literary organisations on hand with information, support and opportunities. Other facilities include a writers’ lounge, local writers’ showcase where authors can display their latest book , a poet in residence, and drop-in advice sessions.

The Hub opens daily at 10am with writing workshops and closes at 6pm.

Wednesday highlights include:
Panel discussion: Why Write? The benefits of writing and reading and the power of stories to change us. With experts from investigative journalism, prison work, and the field of mental health;
What’s Your Story? A chance to introduce yourself and find out what everyone is working on;
Author conversation: Tom Cox – adventures in writing, publishing and talking dogs.
Hub Talk: who tells the story? Documentary maker and journalist Zoe Flood knows first-hand about the pitfalls and politics of telling other people’s stories. An opportunity for a lively discussion about the ethics and implications of the stories we choose to amplify.

Thursday highlights include:
The importance of competitions: lessons learned for the Exeter Novel Prize;
Finding your Voice: Women Speak Volumes on championing older women writers;
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Panel discussion: The writer, the agent, the publicist, the publisher: industry experts including writer turned publisher Jude Cook who is championing male writers.
Hub Talk: AI – friend, foe, or both? information session and Q&A with representatives of the Society of Authors
Author conversation: Orlando Murrin – from Masterchef to master criminals, and what Clotted Crime is all about. glass of fizz.
Word Kitchen are hosting an Open Mic at Brook Kitchen from 6.30 – ticketed separately via the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival website https://budlitfest.org.uk/ Festival tickets go on sale in mid July.