Wantage Literary Festival Day 3
10 am, All tickets £9.
Tom Hindle – “Murder on Lake Garda” LitFest Big Town Read!
In 2024, the Wantage Literary Festival introduces the Litfest Big Town Read, featuring local author Tom Hindle. Tom, originally from Leeds and now an Oxfordshire resident, is the author of several novels, including the chosen read, Murder on Lake Garda. To make the event accessible, tickets are reduced, and extra copies will be available at the library and Wantage Bookshop. The event includes a discussion with Tom, a Q&A session, and a book signing. Join us in this exciting new initiative!
12 pm, Adult £13. Student/Under 14 £8.
Dr Andrew Ormerod – How The Rose got its Thorns
Andrew Ormerod will captivate plant lovers at the festival with his book, The Secret Behind the Thorns of a Rose. He explains why roses have thorns, why daffodils are yellow, and the differences in leaf textures. With user-friendly insights and colour illustrations, Andrew deciphers plant growth, adaptations, and functions: from chemical self-defense and pollinator attraction to temperature resilience, seed dispersal, insect interactions, and water retention. Join Andrew for a fascinating dive into the mysteries of our beloved flora.
2 pm, Adult £13. Student/Under 14 £8.
Laura Laker – Potholes and Pavements
Journalist Laura Laker explores the UK’s National Cycle Network (NCN), revealing its strengths and weaknesses in her journey. Stretching nearly 13,000 miles since its inception in the 1970s, the NCN provides a platform for cyclists but faces challenges like inconsistent quality and funding. Meeting notable figures like Chris Boardman MBE and Ned Boulting, Laura sheds light on the complexities of cycling in the UK.
John Tranter, Chair of Cycling UK Wantage, joins Laura for an insightful conversation on the topic.
4 pm, Adult £13. Student/Under 14 £8.
Dr Caroline Harper – Unseen Universe
Join Dr. Caroline Harper as she explores the breathtaking images from the Webb telescope, revolutionising our understanding of the universe. Launched in December 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope offers unprecedented views, from the Carina Nebula to Jupiter. Dr. Harper, alongside astrophysicists, delves into ten profound questions, including:
- What is the birth process of stars?
- How do galaxies originate and develop?
- What are the beginnings of black holes?
- How do planets acquire their water?
- Is there other life in the universe?
- Is the universe expanding or is it infinite?
Discover the science behind these images, unveiling hidden aspects of the universe and its origins, with insights into the future.
7.30 pm, Adult £22.50. Student/Under 14 £12.
Bob Harris & Colin Hall – The Songs The Beatles Gave Away