Bill McGuire: The Future of Humanity

In his urgent new book The Fate of the World, leading climate scientist, volcanologist and author Bill McGuire argues that many of the impacts of climate change are arriving sooner, and with greater force, than predicted.

Drawing on Earth’s 4.6-billion-year history, he reveals what previous episodes of dramatic climate change can tell us about the decades ahead, and why the consequences may be far more profound than most of us realise.

Professor Emeritus of Geophysical and Climate Hazards at University College London, McGuire has spent decades studying the forces that shape our planet, from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes to the escalating risks posed by a warming world.

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Events last one hour unless otherwise stated, followed by a book signing in The Clearing. Our official bookseller is Waterstones.

Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of stories, ideas and conversation by the sea. Curated by novelist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s festival brings together more than 60 events across two weeks, welcoming world-class writers, thinkers and storytellers to Folkestone.

Discover another event, browse the bookshop, explore Folkestone’s vibrant arts scene, independent cafés, bars and galleries, and share the experience with a friend. The best festivals are as much about the conversations between events as those on stage.

The Festival is part of Folkestone is a Library, our ambitious town-wide celebration of reading, writing and storytelling, helping make Folkestone one of the UK’s most exciting literary destinations.

We believe great conversations should be for everyone, which is why every event includes a £5 Cost of Living Ticket, available with no questions asked.

Please help us spread the word. Together, we’re building a thriving community of readers, writers and curious minds.

Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, Holiday Extras, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. Creative Folkestone is supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Saga. Founding Funder The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.