The Mountains to Sea dlr Book Festival has quickly become a staple of the Dublin literary scene, and this year is shaping up to be no exception. Things got off to an exciting start at the launch, with controversial British novelist Martin Amis taking to the stage of Dun Laoghaire’s Pavilion Theatre for a conversation with RTE Radio 1’s Sean Rocks. There to promote his new book, The Zone of Interest, Amis spoke at length – and with his usual witty candour – about everything from his difficult relationship with critics, to his fond memories of his good friend Christopher Hitchens, including a very funny story about an annoying fellow-diner at a restaurant being put back in his place, Hitchens-style. Insightful, entertaining and engaging (at one point Amis remarked that it seemed to him that absolutely everyone in Ireland “speaks well” – the collective blushing of the audience was almost tangible) expect more of the same from the many talks and events taking place in the Dun Laoghaire area from 11 to 14 September. Here’s our pick of the best:
John Boyne and David Mitchell, chaired by Edel Coffey
12 September, 8.30pm, Pavilion Theatre
One of Ireland’s most successful contemporary novelists sits down for a chat with one of Britain’s. With both Boyne and Mitchell bringing out new works this month, this one is not to be missed.
Canongate and Mountains to Sea Present LETTERS LIVE
13 September 8.30pm, Pavilion Theatre
Celebrating the enduring power of correspondence, LETTERS LIVE is a performance event that will see an impressive array of surprise musicians and actors read from the letters of major historical figures and contemporary icons.
The Poetry Shed
12 September, 10am – 4pm; 13-14 September 10am – 6pm, dlr Lexicon
In celebration of Dylan Thomas’s centenary this year, a replica of the shed in which he wrote some of his best work has been touring England and Wales. In partnership with British Council Ireland, Mountains to Sea will host its only Irish stop-over. Over the course of the festival the shed will house workshops, talks and be open for viewing for those who just want to take a look inside.
For information on the weekend’s many other events, including appearances by Lee Child, Lynn Barber and Michael Symmons Roberts, see www.mountainstosea.ie. Tickets have been selling fast, so book early online, or by calling 01 2312929.
Encounters at Mountains To Sea 2013 from DESIGN FOR LIFE on Vimeo.
