It's Woodstock, a celebration of writers and their words
By Jonathan Brown, The Independent
Wednesday, 18 August 2010

More than 100 leading figures from the literary world will take up residence next month amid the majestic surroundings of Blenheim Palace for The Independent Woodstock Literary Festival 2010.

Among the star attractions in this year's line-up, which was announced yesterday, will be Michael Frayn, the playwright and author, who will describe his attempts to recapture the lost land of the paternal past before it disappears forever – the theme of his latest book, My Father's Fortune – and David Starkey, the historian, who will continue his acerbic take on the British monarchy as he introduces his new book, Crown and Country.

Lady Antonia Fraser will explore her 34-year love affair with Harold Pinter. Based on her extensive diaries, the award-winning biographer will reveal private insights into both her work and the couple's extraordinary life together.

Richard Dawkins, the scientist, is set to renew his assault on the views of creationists and believers in "intelligent design" as he discusses his book, The Greatest Show on Earth, which casts a fresh eye on the theories of Charles Darwin.

Sally Dunsmore, the festival director, promised this year's event, the sixth since its inception, would secure Woodstock's growing reputation as the leading boutique festival in Britain. "We have an exceptional programme of literature, culture, debate delivering dialogue and civilised conversation set among some of the most breathtaking surroundings in Britain," she said. "There are great writers talking about history and their latest fiction as well as some dramatic and stimulating debates. We can also promise some excellent food, wine and gin tastings," she added.
More at The Independent.