William Finnegan (2016 Pulitzer Prize winner), Geoff Dyer (Jeff in Venice, Death in Varanasi), Yann Martel (Life of Pi), John Elder Robsinson (Look Me in the Eye, contributor at New York Times) and Chris Cleave (Incendiary) will each speak on their latest novels and take part in signings as part of the talks at Scott Theatre and Elder Hall. “Following the success of last year’s series, we’re delighted to continue our Writers’ Week special events with five fascinating writers and thinkers,” said Laura Kroetsch in a release. “All five guests explore the art of travel in one way or another, with topics ranging from surfing, reckless youth and advancing age, to love, lost letters and even an ape.” 
Read on for further details on the sessions:
William Finnegan will be discussing his latest novel
Barbarian Days which is already being recognised as a classic of surf literature. The writer most recently picked up a Pulitzer Prize for the novel which chronicles his travels surfing around the world.
Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life William Finnegan in conversation with Laura Kroetsch Scott Theatre, Mon 1 Aug, 7pm
Having visited Adelaide Writers’ Week in 2010 for his novel
Jeff in Venice, Death in Varanasi, Geoff Dyer returns with a new book epitomising his mixed style of travel writing, essays and fiction together,
White Sands: Experiences from the Outside World. White Sands: Experiences from the Outside World Geoff Dyer in conversation with Laura Kroetsch Scott Theatre, Thu 25 Aug, 7pm
Yann Martel, author of the smash-hit novel
Life of Pi has broken his 15 year break from publishing with
The High Mountains of Portugal. Reminiscent of his prior work, the book is a collection of three stories delving into deep existential themes amid a spellbinding narrative and heartfelt comedy.
The High Mountains of Portugal Yann Martel in conversation with Cath Kenneally Elder Hall, Mon 29 Aug, 6.30pm
After the best-selling exploration of living with Aspergers syndrome
Look Me in the Eye, the utterly unique author John Elder Robison continues his quest to inform the public with
Switched On: A Memoir of Brain Change and Emotional Awakening. Taking part in an experimental new neurological therapy known as TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), Robison plums the mysterious depths of his own enigmatic condition.
Switched On John Elder Robison in conversation with Roy Eccleston Elder Hall, Mon 5 Sep, 6.30pm
With his first two novels having been adapted to film (
Incendiary and
The Other Hand), expectations are high for John Cleave’s third tome,
Everyone Brave is Forgiven. Cleave will discuss this novel, based on the real-life love letters his grandparents sent to each other throughout the second World War.
Everyone Brave is Forgiven Chris Cleave in conversation with Sonya Feldhoff Elder hall, Wed 14 Sep, 6.30pm
Sessions will run for one hour with signings taking place after each one. Tickets available via adelaidefestival.com.au
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