Bestselling novelists, award-winning writers and a former British prime minister are among the world-class lineup at this year’s Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival.

The festival, from October 10-20, is one of the biggest dates in the literary calendar. This year’s special guests include former prime minister Theresa May, celebrated author Victoria Hislop, writer and comedian Adam Kay, and GP, bestselling author and Yorkshire Life columnist, Dr Amir Khan.

Theresa May was prime minister during one of the most turbulent periods of modern British politics and her latest book, The Abuse of Power, provides a critical examination of systemic failures and the misuse of authority within public institutions. In her talk, the former Conservative Party leader will discuss her time in government and the importance of integrity and accountability in leadership.

Former prime Minister Theresa May will regale the festival with tales of her premiership. Former prime Minister Theresa May will regale the festival with tales of her premiership. (Image: Matt Cardy/Press Association via AP Images) Historical literature fans will get the chance to hear from Victoria Hislop, whose novel, The Figurine, weaves a tale of history, art and love. The celebrated author will discuss the inspiration behind her new novel, the significance of cultural heritage and her passion for Greek history and culture. Renowned historian and author Alison Weir, whose latest book, Mary I: Queen of Sorrows, delves into the life of Mary I England, also joins the lineup to share the monarch’s personal struggles alongside her legacy in British history.

Doctor turned comedian and writer Adam Kay, author of critically acclaimed memoir This Is Going to Hurt, will talk about his latest book, Undoctored, and share candid stories from his time in healthcare. Also taking to the Harrogate stage is the much-loved actor, comedian and writer Doon Mackichan, whose many credits include The Day Today, Two Doors Down and the Emmy-winning Smack the Pony, who will discuss her feminist memoir My Lady Parts.

Other festival highlights include etiquette coach and Sunday Times bestselling author William Hanson, whose new book Just Good Manners celebrates the British way of doing things, and BBC journalist and broadcaster Ros Atkins, who will talk about his book The Art of Explanation, and his career in journalism.

Best-selling author Victoria Hislop.Best-selling author Victoria Hislop. (Image: Bill Waters) Elsewhere, former SAS medical officer Richard Villar explores the raw, often harrowing, realities of working as a medic in conflict zones. The war surgeon volunteered to provide support in war-torn Gaza and will talk about his first-hand experiences and his forthcoming book, Gaza Medic: A War Surgeon’s Story 2024.

Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival, picked out as ‘One of the UK’s best Literary Festivals’ by Harper’s Bazaar and ‘One of the Top 3 Literary Festivals in the UK’ by the Guardian, has established itself at the forefront of the literary scene thanks to its big name guests and relaxed and intimate setting.

Held at the Crown Hotel in the popular North Yorkshire spa town, the festival celebrates great writing and leading thinkers, sharing stories with as wide an audience as possible and featuring a diverse programme designed to entertain, inspire, educate, challenge and amuse.

Bradford GP Dr Amir Khan has recently written a new health book aimed at children and parents. Bradford GP Dr Amir Khan has recently written a new health book aimed at children and parents. (Image: Courtesy of Dr Amir Khan) Raworths Children’s Festival (October 19-20) returns as part of this year’s literature festival with Bradford GP and bestselling author Dr Amir Khan who shines a light on modern family life in his new, illustrated non-fiction children’s book, How Families Are Made, and shows how families come in all shapes and sizes.

He is joined by award-winning children's author and illustrator Rob Biddulph, who proved to be a big hit at last year’s Festival.

Rachel Tunnicliffe, Senior Partner at Raworths Solicitors, says: ‘This Festival is a real celebration of great books and inspiring, life-affirming writers and we are proud to play a part in bringing such a prestigious event to our town.’

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