Saara El-Arifi & Naomi Ishiguro: The Future of Fantasy

Fantasy and speculative fiction are no longer niche genres. They are some of the most exciting, imaginative and influential forms of storytelling today.

Bestselling author Saara El-Arifi has captivated readers around the world with her internationally acclaimed Faebound trilogy. In her new novel, Earthbound, she once again demonstrates her gift for immersive world-building, unforgettable characters and epic storytelling, exploring identity, power, belonging and the choices that shape who we become.

Naomi Ishiguro’s acclaimed novel The Rainshadow Orphans blends literary fiction, myth and speculative imagination in a haunting vision of a near-future Britain transformed by mysterious events and extraordinary children.

Atmospheric, thought-provoking and deeply humane, it confirms her reputation as one of the most original voices in contemporary fiction. Together, they discuss fantasy, speculative fiction and the art of creating worlds that feel both strange and familiar.

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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.