Jarred McGinnis & Nell Stevens: Who Do You Think You Are?

Two brilliantly original novelists come together for a sharp, psychologically rich conversation about identity, reinvention, self-deception and the gloriously messy business of being human.

Jarred McGinnis, named by The Guardian as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging writers, discusses his highly anticipated new novel, There Is No Meant to Be, a darkly funny, emotionally astute exploration of love, loneliness and the stories we construct to make sense of our lives.

He is joined by Nell Stevens, acclaimed author of Briefly, A Delicious Life and the award-winning memoir Bleaker House, whose dazzling new novel, The Original, explores authenticity, imitation and the slippery nature of identity.

Together, they explore the fictions we create about ourselves, the roles we perform for others, and the unexpected ways literature helps us understand who we really are.

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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.