They’re bored. They’re brilliant. They’re breaking into systems from their bedrooms. Join BBC’s first-ever Cyber Correspondent Joe Tidy for a jaw-dropping journey into the hidden world of teenage hackers – from his gripping new book CTRL+ALT+CHAOS.
From small-town bedrooms to global ransomware attacks, Tidy uncovers how young coders – some as young as 14 – are outsmarting governments, exposing Big Tech, and sometimes causing international mayhem before they’ve even left school. Drawing on years of frontline reporting, exclusive interviews and deep access to online forums, Tidy explores what drives these digital rebels: idealism, injustice, curiosity… or just the thrill of chaos.
What does it mean to grow up in a world where power lives behind a screen? How do you stop a crime when you can’t even see it? And could the next big cyberattack really come from down the street in this seaside town?
Fast-paced, chilling, and full of real stories that read like thrillers – this is a must-see event for parents, teachers, tech-lovers and anyone curious about who’s really behind the keyboard.
This event will be chaired by Struan Bartlett. A journalist by background, and known for his curiosity and sharp editorial instincts, Struan brings a journalist’s clarity and rigour to every event he chairs.. Known for his curiosity and sharp editorial instincts, Struan brings a journalist’s clarity and rigour to every event he chairs.
Please note: this event lasts for one hour, followed by an opportunity to purchase the book upstairs in The Clearing and have it signed by the author
FIND OUT MORE
Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, bold ideas and the power of storytelling – by the sea. Curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s programme features more than 50 events over 11 days, bringing together world-class writers, radical thinkers and unforgettable conversations – all inspired by Folkestone’s spirit of enabling creativity and transformative change.
We want the festival to be for everyone. That’s why we’ve introduced a £5 ticket – a no-questions-asked option for anyone who might be struggling to afford events.
And if you’re planning to come to more than a handful of events, don’t miss our great-value Festival Pass, which gives you access to all events (excluding classes, which need to be booked separately) for just £140.
There’s so much to discover – from headline talks to intimate workshops, big ideas to local voices. Check out the full programme, including our much-loved Local Talent Showcase and a new series of Creative Writing Workshops designed to spark your imagination.
We delighted that our onsite bookseller this year is Waterstones Folkestone.
We thank our major sponsor Saga and supporting sponsors Eurotunnel, Holiday Extras and Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival along with our Education Partner, Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible. Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.