Perth Writers Festival almost here!

I am so looking forward to the Perth Writers Festival this weekend, starting with the opening address by novelist, journalist and political commentator Ahdaf Soueif who witnessed the beginning of a revolution in Cairo's Tahrir Square and will reflect on what it means for an artist to bear witness to the Egyption start of what has been dubbed 'The Arab Spring' by media commentators.

There are some great discussions planned with Margaret Atwood, China Mieville (sorry, not sure how to put the accent on), Anna Funder, Philip Adams (hug), Maxine McKew, Dennis Lehane, Lawrence Norfolk, Loretta Napoleoni, Andy Griffiths, Alison Lester, Isobelle Carmody, Gus Gordon, Edward St Aubyn, James Meek, Robert Dessaux and many, many others.

The Festival runs over Thursday (schools day) right through to Sunday afternoon. Sunday is Family Day with  great children's and YA authors, some of whom are mentioned above. Many of the events are free, and BLPG member Glen Hunting will be donning the T-shirt and volunteering again, so look out for a tall man (with wild hair and a beard) who looks like he knows what he's doing! Last year we were volunteers in solidarity, but I'm having a break from it this year to focus on the Glass of Wine and a Good Book free event sponsored by Writingwa in the Juliet Tent from 2pm -6pm on Saturday, and featuring Western Australian writers.

Volunteering at the festival is a great way to see what goes on behind the scenes, and the best part is meeting the other volunteers, many of whom are also published writers, or students of the craft, so think about it for next year if you are in the vicinity. I'll be putting my hand up again, all being well.