“Major festival of African literature returns for third year, featuring London young poet laureate Warsan Shire and award-winning Ghanaian novelist Ama Ata Aidoo”

WHEN: Friday 11th - Sunday 13h July 2013
WHERE: British Library, 96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB

The British Library is once again partnering with the Royal African Society to host the UK’s largest festival of African literature from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 July 2014.

Africa Writes 2014 will bring together over 50 authors, poets, publishers, critics and experts for an exciting three-day programme, including book launches, readings, talks, panel discussions, performances, children and young people’s workshops, family activities, and an international book fair.

Africa Writes 2014 will open with a heady mix of femininity, politics and poetry on 11th July when Warsan Shire, London’s Young Poet Laureate joins an exciting line-up of voices to reclaim the feminine voice in literature.

The festival’s headline event this year is an in conversation with leading Ghanaian novelist Ama Ata Aidoo, who will be in conversation with critic and linguist, Wangui wa Goro. Ama Ata Aiddo, says:

“I had always thought Africa Writes is a wonderful platform for African writers. So I’m absolutely delighted to be the key guest of the Royal African Society for this year’s festival, and I am looking forward very much to being in London for it.”

Other events throughout the weekend include a tribute to late Chinua Achebe, widely acknowledged as the father of contemporary African literature and two sessions with shortlisted writers for The Caine Prize 2014, one of the most prestigious prizes for African short fiction. Also taking place during this festival are what promise to be exciting debates about Imagining Africa, publishing Books for the Masses in Africa and on African & Diaspora Travel in the 21st Century.

The festival also includes workshops for children, young people and families on the art of storytelling and creating great characters.