Local and international writers are set to gather in Perth to explore military life in a new festival.
The Black Watch Castle and Museum has announced it will be staging its first ever book festival next month, called ‘Words of War’.
It will take place on Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22, with writers exploring military life through talks, interviews, discussions, workshops and book signings.
There will be a pop-up book store provided by Waterstones of Perth at the museum, which will include biographies, analysis and stories inspired by soldiers and conflict.
Staff at The Black Watch Castle and Museum say the military themed book festival is a first for Perthshire, and potentially a first for Scotland.
Professor Sir Hew Strachan, festival patron of ‘Words of War’, said: “The dynamism of The Black Watch Castle and Museum is inspirational.
“Military history in Britain is thriving, and the ‘Words of War’ book festival will be an unprecedented opportunity to hear some of its most distinguished practitioners talk about their work.”
The packed programme of events includes local author Alice Soper, who will give an insight into the life of her father Pipe Major Robert Roy, a legendary Black Watch soldier known as ‘The Piper of Tobruk’.
War journalist, political commentator and film producer Paul Moorcraft will speak on his latest books about war reporting, sharing some of the amusing and hair raising moments he faced in the danger zones he visited.
And for children, author Gill Arbuthnott will explore the story of a young lad as he is marched off to fight in World War I.
Anne Kinness, CEO at The Black Watch Castle and Museum, said she is excited about the book festival.
She said: “Our ‘Words of War’ book festival builds on the very successful lecture programme the castle and museum have been hosting for the last five years which has given us an understanding of the increasing interest in military history and the related personal stories.
“We hope this unique event will become a highlight within the ever expending Perthshire calendar.
“I would like to extend our thanks to Professor Sir Hew Strachan FBA FRS, patron of ‘Words of War’, Tippermuir Books, Perth’s not for profit publishers, and our sponsors for their help and support with this new event.”
All the money raised from the book festival will go towards supporting the museum’s charitable objectives.
To find out more about the festival and to book tickets, visit www.theblackwatch.co.uk/events/words-of-war-book-festival/
