Green pieces

Pure bloodorangey brilliant.

Kickstarting the alternative list of climate names at Edinburgh International Book Festival is ornithologist Dr Mya-Rose Craig (27 August, 1.45pm). Known as ‘Birdgirl’ (pictured), her talk is expected to be among the most refreshing and engaging showings on offer throughout August, when she will discuss her recently released children’s book, Flight Having spoken alongside the likes of Greta Thunberg, Malala Yousafzai and Emma Watson, Craig is widely regarded as one of the leading modern-day climate activism trailblazers, and her new book (illustrated by Lynn Scurfield) provides an informative, accessible glimpse into the everyday coexistence of human beings and our avian cousins.

Eco-authors David Farrier and Katherine Rundell (21 August, 3.15pm) are also bringing their combined surfeit of environmental knowledge to Edinburgh in the form of Creature Feature, a joint talk that takes a broad look at the potential losses we may encounter collectively as a result of the swiftly developing climate situation. Looking locally, Edinburgh University medical student turned author Mikaela Loach (12 August, 7pm) will no doubt receive a warm welcome at her Changing The Climate Narrative event. Far from the doom and gloom that climate discussions are often associated with, Loach offers a positive outlook, straying from a defeatist attitude while insisting that we focus our efforts on what can be achieved.

Opting for a more arts-based approach, multi-faceted wordsmith Ben Okri (13 August, 11.45am) employed a fusion of poetry and essay-style writing in his latest release, the revealing and enlightening Tiger Work No stranger to environmental activism himself, Okri looks inwards at his own climate experiences, as he attempts to envision what life may look like for those forced to live with the consequences of humanity’s actions (and inaction) in years to come.

All events at Edinburgh College Of Art.

ith over 500 events to choose from, there’s something for everyone at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. For music fans, join Annie Macmanus and Mat Osman, and for TV and film lovers, Rob Delaney and Sara Pascoe will take to the stage. We’ll also be joined by award winning authors Ian McEwan, Ali Smith and Graeme Armstrong, to name a few.

This year’s Festival is a particularly exciting one, as it marks 40 years of bringing the world’s finest writers and thinkers to Edinburgh. Join us at our Festival Village in Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place, as we celebrate the joy of words.

Pick up a copy of our programme where we’re sure you’ll find your Book Bliss. Or book now at edbookfest.co.uk.