Session Spotlights - Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival

SESSION SPOTLIGHTS

We’re absolutely thrilled by the response to our 2024 program!

In just over a week, two sessions (in addition to the incredibly popular Poetry Slam) have sold out, and more sessions are selling fast.

The printed program is now available

Pick up a program from The Book Warehouse, Coffs Harbour.

Your local libraries and selected cafes & shops in Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Dorrigo, Urunga, Valla, Nambucca and Macksville

So don’t miss out on the fantastic lineup of events!

To help you decide, let’s take a sneak peek at

some of the exciting sessions.

In Conversation | Matthew Reilly

Sunday 9th June

12pm – 1pm

Memorial Hall

Matthew Reilly, the internationally bestselling Australian author is renowned for his gripping thriller novels. His literary works have been published in over 20 languages and amassing a staggering 8 million copies in worldwide sales.

The continued success of Reilly’s novels has been attributed not only to his accessible and engaging “storyteller” style, but also to the highly charged action sequences that take place through his books. Among his notable works are The Scarecrow Series and the Jack West Series.

His latest book, Mr. Einstein’s Secretary, diverges from the adrenaline-fueled roller-coasters typical of his repertoire.

In this captivating book, Hannah’s journey unfolds as a compelling reminder that sometimes, the most significant stories emerge from the shadows. Spanning forty years, this is the thrilling tale of a young woman propelled through history’s most dangerous times.

Join Melanie Kembrey in conversation with Matthew Reilly as he reveals the muses and mysteries behind his writing craft.

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In Conversation | Shelley Parker-Chan

Saturday 8th June

9am – 10am

The Studio

Shelley Parker-Chan is an Asian Australian former international development adviser who worked on human rights, gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights in Southeast Asia.

They are known for writing highly emotional, ostensibly historically based, epic fantasy novels, their debut historical fantasy novel She Who Became the Sun was a #1 Sunday Times bestseller and has been translated into 15 languages. The sequel, He Who Drowned the World forms The Radiant Emperor Duology.

“I write historical fantasies designed to feel like book versions of those hyper-addictive Asian historical TV dramas you can find on Netflix. Except in mine, everyone’s queer. There’s love, revenge, betrayals and back-stabbing, tragedy – all the good stuff.” Shelley Parker-Chan

Step into the world of stolen fates and ruthless gamble with Shelley as they discuss with Amy Lovat their groundbreaking duology and writing home grown fantasy fiction.

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Wendy Harmer appearing at

See Me Now: Modern Memoir

Saturday 8th June

1.30pm – 2.30pm

Memorial Hall

Wendy Harmer & Jackie Huggins on how we choose to share our stories.

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Write Funny, Dammit!

Sunday 9th June

6.15pm – 7.15pm

The Studio

Wendy Harmer & Benjamin Stevenson reveal how they keep readers laughing.

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Wendy Harmer, acclaimed Australian entertainer, radio host, and writer, lays bare her soul in the candid and fearless memoir titled Lies My Mirror Told Me.

Born with a severe facial deformity, Wendy’s journey unfolds from remote one-room country schools in rural Victoria to the glitzy stages of international comedy.

Her trademark in-your-face frankness and celebrated wit accompany her as she navigates adversity, reconstructive surgery, and the cutthroat world of Sydney FM radio.

Wendy’s life story is an unlikely success saga, chronicling her resilience, humor, and trailblazing spirit.

Why not explore the program yourself?

We assure you that you’ll discover something remarkable.

Simply click the button below!