Guardian Live Hosts Special Book Club on the 100 Best Novels of All Time
This May, the Guardian's Saturday magazine is set to unveil a landmark and entirely subjective list of the 100 best novels of all time, drawing on insights from over 150 authors, critics, and academics worldwide. To celebrate this exciting publication, Guardian Live is organizing a special Book Club event that promises to be a highlight for literature enthusiasts.
Event Details and Panel Discussion
The event will take place on Tuesday, May 19, from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM BST. It will be chaired by Lisa Allardice, the Guardian's chief books writer, and feature a lively panel discussion with renowned novelists Elif Shafak, Guy Gunaratne, and Kate Mosse. These literary giants will delve into the novels that have shaped their work, lives, and understanding of the world, offering unique perspectives on the Guardian's extensive poll results.
In an in-depth conversation, the panel will explore the significance of the yet-to-be-revealed novel taking the number one spot. They will also discuss the importance of subjectivity in literature, how great novels influence writers across generations, and why fiction remains central to making sense of an ever-changing world. The evening will conclude with an audience Q&A session, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers.
Special Activities and Accessibility
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to participate in a special book exchange ahead of the event. This activity offers a chance to meet fellow readers, share recommendations, and swap much-loved titles. Participants can bring a book to exchange or leave one behind for others to discover, fostering a sense of community among literature lovers.
The event will be held in-person at Conway Hall, located at 25 Red Lion Square, London, WC1R 4R, which is wheelchair accessible. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream option is available via Vimeo. Tickets are priced at £30 for in-person attendance and £15 for online access. A recording of the event will be sent to all ticket holders and available for two weeks, ensuring no one misses out on this enriching discussion.
Speaker Profiles
Elif Shafak is an award-winning British-Turkish novelist with 21 books published, including novels translated into 58 languages. Her notable works include The Island of Missing Trees, a finalist for multiple prizes, and 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World, shortlisted for the Booker Prize.
Kate Mosse CBE FRSL is a novelist, playwright, and historian known for her Languedoc Trilogy and Joubert Family Chronicles. She is the founder director of the Women's Prize for Fiction and Non-Fiction and a trustee of the British Library.
Guy Gunaratne is a British novelist and playwright, winner of the Dylan Thomas Prize and the Jhalak Prize, with works longlisted for the Booker and Goldsmith's prizes. He also serves as the editor of the Jhalak Review.
This Guardian Live event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about literature, offering a deep dive into the world's greatest novels and the minds behind them. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a once-in-a-generation literary celebration.
