explore words discover worlds

Join acclaimed novelist, poet and playwright, Inua Ellams, author of The Half-God of Rainfall and hit play, Barber Shop Chronicles, Ashley Thorpe, author of The Boy to Beat the Gods, and Chikodili Emelumadu, author of Dazzling, to celebrate the extraordinary tales of West African mythology. You may be familiar with Greek mythology, but have you encountered the trickster Anansi, the spider, or the Orisha, the pantheon of Gods whose seeds are scattered across the African continent? Whether you're a curious bystander or an expert in African folklore, our panel will guide you through the mythological wonders of West Africa and the work inspired by them.

Join us for an extraordinary evening with Joanne Harris, the celebrated author of Chocolat, as she unveils her first fantasy novel in six years, The Moonlight Market. Dive into the hidden depths of contemporary London through the eyes of Tom, a photographer who inadvertently falls for Vanessa, a woman ensnared in a perilous double-life in bustling King's Cross. As Tom's pursuit leads him into a mystical world concealed within the familiar streets of London, inhabited by peculiar creatures and ancient warring factions, he stumbles upon a clandestine market that emerges solely in moonlight. Here, memories are the currency for charms and spells, and Tom is haunted by the feeling that he has been part of this enigmatic world before.

Delve into the thrilling world of crime fiction as we are joined by acclaimed authors, Vaseem Khan, Alex Gray, Sarah Hussain, and chair, Saeida Rouass. They will discuss their gripping novels, each set in a different corner of the globe. These authors will share their unique perspectives on weaving intricate tales of mystery, suspense, and intrigue, transporting readers to diverse settings and cultures. Explore the dynamic interplay of crime, culture, and location, and gain insights into how international influences shape their storytelling. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with the minds behind some of the most compelling crime fiction, and uncover the secrets lurking across borders.

The UK general practice has reached crisis point. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has placed a strain on an already crumbling primary care service, leaving both patients and NHS staff struggling. Seventy-six years after the NHS was created, Dr Ellen Welch and Dr Nighat Arif lift the curtain on general practice, both reflecting on the history of the profession and how it's changed, and looking ahead to what general practice might look like. With accounts from GPs across the country, those on the frontline try to answer the question: how did we get here? Is it better overseas? And what can be done to make things better for us all in the future?

Join with Ustadh Amjad Tarsin from Al-Maqasid in Pennsylvania, US, as he introduces The Kingdom of the Heart. This latest work of Habib Umar has been translated into English from Arabic by Tarsin.Tarsin will discuss the importance of nurturing the spiritual aspect of the heart, highlighting how our outward actions are deeply connected to the state of our hearts and provide valuable insights into how our behaviour influences our inner being. Tarsin, as covered in the book, will offer guidance on internalising the wisdom found in acts of devotion, believed to have a purifying effect on the heart.

Dive into a discussion about class, culture, and art in a conversation that promises to be as enlightening as it will be provocative. Step back into 1857, mill workers from the North of England embarked on an unprecedented journey to Manchester, witnessing the world's most remarkable display of art. The Manchester Art Treasures Exhibition wasn't just another gallery showing; it was a monumental event that attracted over 1.3 million people, including royalty like Queen Victoria, cultural icons like Charles Dickens, and figures from all classes. Fast forward to today, where art galleries seem reserved for the upper and middle classes, with fewer than 8% of visitors from working class backgrounds. Why such a shift? What does it mean for our cultural landscape? Join author, David Kennedy, for an engaging talk as he explores these questions and more, drawing on his latest research from the book Art and Class: How the middle classes hijacked the nation's galleries.

Join this vibrant discussion with Bob Cryer, son of comedy legend, Barry Cryer, as he divulges anecdotes of his father's incredible life and career from his new book, Barry Cryer: Same Time Tomorrow, including the story of how Cryer called up his literary hero, J.B Priestley, and went over for tea with the Monty Python troop. J.B. Priestley, born in Bradford in 1894, was a prolific writer, playwright, and social commentator. His works often delved into themes of social justice, time, and the interconnectedness of human existence. Though his work was often serious in nature, Priestley had a wicked sense of humour. Cryer will be joined by Steve Abbott, manager-turned-producer for Monty Python, and Lindsay Sutton, Chair of the J.B. Priestley Society (both born in Bradford)

Immerse yourself in an inspiring celebration of two of the most influential figures in American literature, Maya Angelou and James Baldwin. Dive into the lives and legacies of these two iconic friends, whose shared experiences in the Civil Rights Movement and deep connections to religion shaped their profound contributions to poetry and the arts. Join us for a vibrant panel discussion exploring the unique literary friendship that enriched their later years and left an indelible mark on each other's work. Discover how their relentless curiosity about life and unwavering commitment to Black rights and culture fuelled their creative genius. Don't miss this opportunity to honour and delve into the enduring impact of Angelou and Baldwin's intertwined lives and works. Experience the passion and power of their words in a celebration of their remarkable journey together.

Join Dr Asad Tarsin as he expertly navigates through the essential concepts and timeless wisdom gleaned from over 20 reputable authorities in Islam.Being Muslim: A Practical Guide is meticulously crafted by Dr Tarsin, and gives practical and valuable insights, allowing you to grasp the essence of what it truly means to be Muslim.Whether you are embarking on your journey into Islam or seeking to refresh your understanding of its foundational principles, Being Muslim will bestow the most fundamental aspects of the faith, no matter your level of familiarity with Islam.

Embark on a mesmerising journey through time and space with the electrifying debut novel from award-winning poet Joelle Taylor, The Night Alphabet. A dazzlingly bold and original work, The Night Alphabet is a deep investigation into human nature and violence against women and is a conversation not to be missed. A fierce, tender and highly uncomfortable study of power, agency and resilience, this novel pulls no punches. Join Taylor as she delves into the dystopian cityscape of futuristic Hackney in 2233, where Jones, adorned with copious tattoos, seeks to complete her extraordinary gallery with a final, blood-inked line that connects her stories.

Join us for a 360° view of a book's journey from the manuscript phase to the hands of readers. Bringing together voices from the publishing world, we'll talk through the process of finding an agent, submitting to publishers and the editing process – what to expect, what might be challenging and the role of an author throughout the process. Find out how to avoid the slush pile, the pros and cons of indie publishing versus larger publishing houses and how the whole cycle works, from submission to bookshelf.

“Some brains, through no fault of their own, pack a bag, turn the lights off and run away to the seaside the moment they are meant to be doing homework, paying bills or not putting the cat in the fridge. These are ADHD brains and I have one.”You'll know her from Live at the Apollo and Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow. Much-loved comedian, Shaparak Khorsandi, shares her rollercoaster ride of a life shaped by undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in her latest publication, Scatter Brain.Khorsandi talks all things, from shoplifting and her attraction to toxic men, and you'll discover what it's really like to live a life out of control.Whether you suspect you may have ADHD, or you're just here for the ride, Khorsandi will share her heart-breaking and hilarious journey of self-discovery. Who knows where it may lead to?!

Join us for a captivating discussion as author, Jason Wright, teams up with Stephen Pritchard from the Blake Society to explore the transformative power of William Blake's work in modern mental health and addiction recovery.Delve into Blake's Illustrations of the Book of Job and discover how these poignant themes resonate with contemporary psychoanalysis and psychotherapy techniques. Wright masterfully connects Blake's vision of despair, redemption and hope to the journeys individuals face when overcoming trauma today.This engaging event will offer fresh perspectives on using historic literary insights to foster healing and growth in modern therapy. Don't miss this unique blend of art, literature and psychological recovery.

In the hands of artists and poets, books have taken a radically different form since the advent of the artist's book in Paris in the early 20th century. In this fascinating conversation, art historian, Dr Venetia Porter, curator of the Artists making books: poetry to politics exhibition, and academic and writer, Dr Atef Alshaer, discuss the exhibition's accompanying publication, a stunning collection of outstanding and fascinating artists' books. Join us for an enthralling discussion as they delve into the range of artists work, from Beirut to Tunis and beyond. Highlighting the relationship between artists and writers and the influences that inform their work, from family to politics and everything in between.

Join us as host, Muhammad Jalal, meets Ahmed Paul Keeler to recount his fascinating life journey, from an idyllic childhood in Windsor to navigating trauma in English boarding schools, embracing modern art and theatre, and ultimately to finding solace in Islam.As a teen, Keeler organised plays and later established the groundbreaking Signals Gallery, promoting kinetic art. His crowning achievement was the World of Islam Festival in 1976, followed by various projects promoting Islamic civilisation and cultural dialogue. At 70, he penned Rethinking Islam and the West, questioning society's obsession with progress andadvocating for balance, explored further in his companion volume, A Life's Journey.Enjoy discovering the ideas and experiences that informed Ahmed Paul Keeler's book Rethinking islam & the West.

Join us for a panel discussion on the rich heritage and contemporary resonance of Islamic art and architecture.The panel includes Dr Silke Ackermann, Director of the History of Science Museum at the University of Oxford, and Dr Abdulrahman Azzam and Muhannad Shono, two of the curators of the forthcoming Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, which is the first exhibition of its kind and offers a forum for the display and discussion of Islamic arts and cultures from around the world.Ackermann and Azzam bring their expertise and perspectives on the multifaceted ways in which Islamic philosophies and civilizations have had a profound impact on art and science globally.As a prominent Saudi artist working in Riyadh today, Shono addresses the lasting significance of Islamic cultural heritage for contemporary art.Together, the panellists offer insight into the beauty and breadth of the arts of Islamic cultures, and the profound influence they have had on our shared present.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion as we celebrate the enduring feminist legacy of Anne Brontë, a pioneering voice in Victorian literature, with Brontë scholar, Rose Gant, and Anne Brontë biographer, Samantha Ellis. Anne, often overshadowed by her sisters, Charlotte and Emily, challenged societal norms and championed women's rights through her groundbreaking novels and poetry. From her portrayal of strong, independent female characters to her unflinching exploration of themes, such as domestic abuse, addiction, and female agency, Anne's writings continue to resonate with modern audiences and inspire generations of feminists.

Join us for a thought-provoking panel event, showcasing the UK's foremost cosy crime authors, including Katy Watson, JM Hall and Antony Johnston. These popular authors share a passionate love for their genre, and together will embark on a quest to decipher whether crime can ever truly be cosy.Dive into the realm of cosy mystery books, your perfect haven for lighthearted escapism. With the genre growing in popularity once again, the question lingers…can crime genuinely exude cosiness?Explore the charm, wit, and intrigue of cosy crime fiction as we unravel the mystery. Don't miss this unique opportunity to delve into the heart of this captivating literary discussion.

Join this fascinating conversation, we explore the historical, cultural and religious significance of one of the world's oldest and most contested cities, which is holy to the three major Abrahamic faiths. Jerusalem's rich tapestry of history includes periods of conquest, conflict and coexistence, each leaving its mark on the city's identity. From the ancient walls of the Old City to the revered sites like the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem serves as a focal point for millions of believers worldwide. In the modern context, what does the ancient city of Jerusalem stand for today?

Join Professor Saeed Khan as he explores Orientalism as Said defined and described it and how it persists as a central component, explicitly or otherwise, in so many contemporary conversations. In 1978, Edward Said published Orientalism, which served as a critique of Western scholarship. Said argued persuasively that Western scholars viewed the rest of the world, and particularly the Middle East and Muslim world, as the perennial ‘Other' and, more troublingly, the ‘Lesser'. Said's work revolutionised several fields of study and has influenced academics, policy-makers and politicians ever since. Nearly five decades on, Said's work has proven to be both profound and even prophetic, as current perceptions about Muslims and the Middle East, including Islamophobia, the recent refugee crisis and regional conflicts, all affirm and prove the continuing presence and dominance of Orientalism.

Join us for a compelling discussion on the ethics of documenting and reporting humanitarian crisis zones, exploring the fine line that journalists and filmmakers have to tread between help and harm. Addressing when to film and when not to, this event discusses the challenges of avoiding ‘misery porn' and ensuring ethical, impactful storytelling while safeguarding those involved.

Join translator, Mahdi Lock, as he delves into Depression and Anxiety: The Causes and Treatment According to the Qur'an, promising an insightful exploration of these prevalent issues. Loch will illuminate often overlooked factors, highlighting the various causes of depression and anxiety, and uncover the importance of strengthening one's connection for healing and empowerment. This event offers spiritual enrichment, guiding attendees to detach from worldly concerns, purify their hearts, and understand their purpose. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and tools for emotional wellbeing.

Join us for a discussion about this book's huge legacy and what George Orwell would think about the state of today's world. Published in 1949, George Orwell's famous dystopian novel, 1984, is one of the most important books of the 20th century, still widely referenced today across politics and culture. Orwell modelled his authoritarian state in the novel on the Soviet Union in the era of Stalinism and on Nazi Germany. Dealing with themes of totalitarianism, mass surveillance and more broadly with the role of truth within society, this book is arguably the most influential piece of political and dystopian fiction in the modern era.

The UK's favourite vicar, Kate Bottley, returned to Bradford to share some life lessons.She's sat on a lot of sofas, drank a lot of tea, and garnered a lot of wisdom from the wonderful people she's met along the way. Whether you're contemplating the big questions of life and death, dealing with confidence, conflict, or loneliness, Bottley is here to help you feel less alone, and equip you with the tools to ride the bumpy waves of life.Whatever it is that you believe in, whatever it is that gives you hope, this evening promises to be a warm cup of tea for the heart and soul.

Delve into the tumultuous origins and evolution of the Independent Labour Party, the working-class political movement born in Bradford in 1893. Through the captivating narratives of three central characters—passionate Fred Jowett, ruthless Philip Snowden and the unforgettable Victor Grayson—Brody weaves a tale of ambition, loyalty and betrayal.

Join SherAli Tareen and co-panelists for a thought-provoking exploration of a complex and sensitive topic. SherAli Tareen's fascinating new book, Perilous Intimacies: Debating Hindu-Muslim Friendship after Empire, explores how leading South Asian Muslim thinkers imagined and contested the boundaries of Hindu-Muslim friendship from the mid-18th to the mid-20th centuries.

WritersMosaic and Colin Grant will be joined by three award-winning authors: Chitra Ramaswamy, Ingrid Persaud, and Nicholas Rankin. Discussing the idea of memory and writing.

Join us for a crucial conversation with Professor Paul Rogers, one of the most forward-thinking analysts of our time, as he discusses his latest book, A Crowded, Glowering World: Paths to a Sustainable and Secure Future. This talk will explore the interconnected challenges we currently face and deliver crucial insights into understanding this global ‘polycrisis'.A respected authority on conflict analysis, Rogers has been remarkably prescient in his predictions, includingthe long-term ramifications of the Iraq War and the evolving dangers of climate change.

In this heritage talk, you will explore how Britain's textile industry is being reinvented for the 21st century. Using photographs taken over the past 120 years, Tim Smith will show how the innovative spirit that once powered the textile industry remains alive and well. Wool and cotton fuelled the first industrial revolution and, today, a vast array of fibres is driving a new revolution. Discover how traditional technologies are used in surprising ways to develop pioneering materials, from biomedical textiles used in the human body to aerospace vehicles exploring our solar system.

We've brought together Lauren Beukes, author of bestselling novel, The Shining Girls, whose work straddles the speculative and literary, and celebrated crime author John Connolly, best known for his PI Charlie Parker series, to share their best tips and tricks to convey authenticity in storytelling.Conveying a strong sense of place is vital for a reader to know where they are, when they are, what's going on in the wider written world and why. Whether you're a writer yourself or you just enjoy being immersed in a good book, our authors will reveal their secrets for creating immersive scene settings and worlds.

Join local author, Charlotte Bradman, as she shares her remarkable story of breaking free from a turbulent past, mounting debts and the monotony of the nine-to-five grind, to embrace a simpler way of life in her beloved campervan. The Happy Nomad is Bradman's newly released debut, a journey of self-discovery and liberation. Through laughter, tears and moments of profound insight, she learns to cherish the gift of time and the connections forged on the road.

A unique conversation as the Blake Society's Stephen Pritchard and poet, John Siddique, explore the similarities between two hugely influential writers and artists: William Blake and Kahlil Gibran. Both Blake and Gibran were poets and artists who dabbled in prophetic vision. Their readings of the Bible, their rebellion against Church corruption, and their sociopolitical visions were very similar. Gibran himself was referred to as the ‘twentieth-century Blake' and actively emphasised the connection between them.

In May 1904, the Great Exhibition in Lister Park showcased Bradford businesses, art and culture, and featured a standout exhibit: the Somali Village. Within this village, 60 Somali individuals, including men, women, and children, resided in a walled compound for six months. In this fascinating event, Fozia Bora tells the stories of some of these Villagers – often polyglot cosmopolitans, and Bradford's earliest-known Muslim community – who speak from the past through the recovery of written, oral and photographic archives.

With more than four billion people eligible to vote in an election in 2024, we delve into the electoral landscapes of India, the United States and the United Kingdom to examine the key issues shaping each nation's political discourse and how these elections will impact international relations, economic policies and global democratic trends. This overview of the 2024 elections and their potential to influence the future trajectory of global politics and economics. Whether you are a political enthusiast, a student of international relations or simply curious about global democratic processes, this panel will offer valuable insights and stimulating discussion.

Explore a crucial chapter in Middle Eastern history as we delve into the British Mandate in Palestine, which spanned from the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I until the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. This period was marked by the emergence of nationalist movements and uprisings from both Arab and Jewish communities. Many viewed this era as a betrayal of the promised Arab independence, as it saw successive waves of Jewish immigration. This ultimately led to the United Nations' plan to partition the territory. Join us for a timely examination of how the British administration in post-Ottoman Palestine still resonates today.

Join journalist, Nabila Ramdani, as she discusses her new book, Fixing France: How to Repair a Broken Republic, charting the course of France's Fifth Republic, formed in the wake of the 1958 Algerian war of independence. Ramdani, with her Algerian heritage perspective, unveils a bold new lens through which to view modern France, tackling complex themes such as politics, economics, societal shifts and feminism. This trailblazing work delves deep into the challenges faced by marginalised minorities, particularly Muslims, who struggle against systemic barriers in housing, employment and education. It poses pressing questions about the foundational ideals of the republic and the pervasive influence of the far right. Join Ramdani as she exposes the harsh realities and sparks crucial dialogue about the future trajectory of the French republic, exploring whether France's foundation was a castle built on sand and what it will take to forge a resilient future.

In this episode two of the biggest names in comics, Dave Gibbons and Tim Pilcher, discuss their fascinating careers and their book, Confabulation: An Anecdotal Autobiography.As co-creator of Watchmen and with a back catalogue that includes everything from Doctor Who to Batman, Gibbons is comic book royalty. Writer, historian and comic book expert, Pilcher, is Chair of the Comic Book Alliance and dubbed ‘the Voice of the British comics industry'.

In this episode, renowned experts Barnaby Rogerson and Eugene Rogan, and chair Aaqil Ahmed, take a deep dive into the watershed moments that helped make and, at times, break the modern Middle East, a diverse region that is both incredibly culturally rich and yet fragile from the effects of empire and past and present power rivalries.

2024 marks 100 years since a watershed moment in Russia's history: the death of Vladimir Lenin, and the beginning of Joseph Stalin's rise to power. In this episode, Professor John Russell deep dives into the complexities of Russia's past and present, from Stalin's rise to power to Putin's fifth presidential term.

In this episode, enjoy dynamic poetry readings which explore some of the biggest issues in the world today, with poets Ralph Dartford, Tasneim Zyada, and Matt Abbott.

In this episode, Professor Saeed Khan takes us back to the Watergate Scandal, exploring what it meant for the American Presidency, the legacy it has left, and whether Watergate set the stage for the rise of Donald Trump and the current political climate.

In this episode, Shaykh Yahya Rhodus will guide us through Treatises of Imam al-Ghazali. This extensive book set explores the deep wisdom of Imam al-Ghazali, a renowned Islamic scholar and philosopher from the medieval era, touching on topics like religious doctrine, Sufism, eschatology, truth, and knowledge.

In this episode, join Shahina A. Ghazanfar, author and botanist at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and renowned scientific illustrator, Sue Wickison, as they discuss their award-winning book and exhibition, Plants of the Qur'an.

In this episode Jamal Mahjoub, Hamid Khalafallah, and Adela Suliman, discuss the current crisis in Sudan, a conflict which has resulted in a severe humanitarian disaster with over 14,000 fatalities and millions displaced.

In this episode, join us for a compelling discussion with Dr Husam Zomlot, Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, on the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Dr Zomlot explores the challenges, opportunities for peace, and the future of Palestinian diplomacy.

In this episode, explore what makes arguably the most enigmatic of Haworth's famous literary siblings, Emily Brontë, such an attractive subject for filmmakers and biographers.

In this episode, poets Khadijah Ibrahiim and Karen McCarthy Woolf, discuss the state of poetry in the UK; highlighting key themes preoccupying poets today and how poetry is changing. We also hear the shortlist for The Forward Prizes for Poetry 2023 awards, including a new category: Best Single Poem – Performed.

In this episode, our special guest Damian Bradfield, author of Algorithmic Reality, explores the state of the internet, the addictive effects of social media, invasion of privacy, data misuse, and the current use of your data to power AI – and how we can take back control.

In this episode, delve into the Golden Age of Islam in a captivating conversation with Dr Shamim Miah, author of Ibn Khaldun: Education, History and Society, and Saeed Khan.

In this episode, we hear from Ben Aaronovitch and Jonathan Stroud – two stellar names in the world of British Fantasy. Aaronovitch's Rivers of London series has become a runaway success, and Stroud is author of the acclaimed Lockwood and Co series.

In this episode, our panel discuss how society has changed and ask whether our obsession with individualism has eroded community values. Has life in the 21st century become all about the cult of the individual?