Rich with new ideas, the Brisbane Writers Festival has kicked off and will deliver an array of events that will inspire new passions, spark conversations and share engaging stories.
Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the festival brought 250 authors and guest speakers from across the nation and around the globe.
"This year’s Brisbane Writers Festival is expected to attract more than 24,000 participants and deliver 200 events over the four-day program," Ms Enoch said.
"With its theme ‘what the world needs now’, Brisbane Writers Festival asks writers and visitors alike to join together for several days of readings, debate, special events and free public sessions covering diverse perspectives.
"I welcome international guests Lauren Weisberger (The Devil Wears Prada), Veronica Roth (Divergent, Insurgent, and Allegiant), A J Finn (The Woman in the Window), South African writer Sisonke Msimang, and of course author Geoffrey Robertson QC."
"The program includes well-known Australian authors such as Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, Morris Gleitzman, Jared Thomas, Clare Atkins, Alison Goodman, Fleur Ferris, Sarah Epstein, Anita Heiss, Billy Griffiths and Brendan Lawley.
"We will also hear from Queensland authors Melissa Lucashenko, Jackie Ryan, Ashley Hay, Nick Earls, Richard Fidler, Janet Lee and Trent Dalton.
"As well as showcasing some of our most exciting writers, the Festival will take on stories of music too with Aussie rock legend Tim Rogers (You Am I) speaking about his memoir Detours with Robert Forster (The Go Betweens)," Ms Enoch said.
Minister Enoch said the Queensland Government supported the Brisbane Writers Festival, which is presented by UPLIT.
"Brisbane Writers Festival, which began in 1962, is now one of Australia’s favourite literary events. I know this year’s visitors will enjoy its entertaining, engaging and thought provoking atmosphere," she said.
