East Lothian, Scotland — East Lothian is set to host a wide range of events for Book Week Scotland, running from November 18 to November 24. The county’s celebration of literature will feature a packed schedule with author talks, workshops, and creative activities aimed at readers and writers of all ages.
Key Highlights of East Lothian’s Book Week Scotland Events
A J Proudfoot Kicks Off the Week at Musselburgh Library
The festivities begin on Monday, November 18, at Musselburgh Library with author A J Proudfoot, who will discuss his debut novel Rise of the First Wessex King. The novel, which draws from Proudfoot’s family history, transports readers to medieval Britain. The event starts at 6pm and offers an opportunity to purchase the book.
Poetry Workshop at North Berwick Library
On Tuesday, November 19, North Berwick Library will host a creative poetry workshop led by Iona Lee, an interdisciplinary poet, artist, and performer. The workshop, starting at 2pm, invites participants to explore visual, sound, and concrete poetry through interactive writing exercises.
Book Launch: A Last Journey by Ann Burnett
Also on Tuesday, the John Gray Centre in Haddington will hold the launch of Ann Burnett’s A Last Journey at 2.30pm. The memoir, which focuses on Burnett’s husband’s battle with dementia, raises awareness about the emotional impact of the disease. Attendees will have the chance to purchase the book.
Wellbeing and Mental Health Workshop in Haddington
On Wednesday, November 20, a 90-minute wellbeing workshop will take place at the John Gray Centre’s Star Room, focusing on mental health, positive thinking, and everyday joy. The workshop, led by Marie Adams, includes refreshments and costs £2 to attend.
Creative Writing with Elspeth Wilson at Dunbar Library
Thursday, November 21, offers a creative writing workshop at Dunbar Library, hosted by author Elspeth Wilson. The free session, which runs from 6:30pm to 8pm, explores the theme of friendship through various writing exercises.
Christmas Crafting with Jo MacNamara
The following day, Friday, November 22, Dunbar Library will host a Christmas-themed workshop by Jo MacNamara. From 2:30pm to 4pm, participants can learn to recycle old items into festive decorations, with a particular focus on books.
Scottish Emigration Talk and Children’s Events on Saturday
Saturday, November 23, features multiple events across the county. At 11am, the John Gray Centre will host Professor Marjory Harper’s talk on Scottish emigration in the 19th century, priced at £2. At the same time, North Berwick Library will offer a children’s talk by Valerie Duncan on the fascinating topic of edible bugs and their environmental impact.
At 11am, Dunbar Library will also host a Knit & Natter session, where participants can meet author Debbie Zawinski and discuss her book Stories in Stitches: A Memoir in Knitting.
