Right Word, Right Place, Right Time: Going West 2010

The literary weekend ‘Right Word Right Place Right Time’ is the main highlight of Going West Books and Writers Festival 2010. It takes place over three days (10-12 September).

The weekend begins on Friday 10 September at 7.30pm. Jenny Bornholdt, arguably one of New Zealand’s best-loved poets, is this year’s Curnow Reader and acclaimed author, anthropologist and historian Dame Anne Salmond will discuss the theme of the weekend in her keynote address. Tribute will be paid to writer/poet J C Sturm and the 2007 documentary Broken Journey: The Life and Art of JC Sturm will be screened.

On Saturday 11 September Bee Dawson will discuss her new book A History of Gardening in New Zealand with Christopher Johnstone, author of The Painted Garden in New Zealand Art.

Story teller Tanya Batt joins forces with English lecturer Dr Claudia Marquis to tell tales and consder the big questions, such as why are some stories recounted across the centuries while others sink without trace?

Other highlights of Saturday include fashion curator and author of New Zealand Fashion Design Angela Lassig teaming up with Doris de Pont to discuss the evolution of New Zealand fashion over the last 30 years; poet Courtney Meredith performing; Len Lye biographer Roger Horrocks' introducing a collection of Lye's creative writing (Body English), cultural icon Bill Direen performing and the book launch of Words Chosen Carefully - New Zealand Authors in Discussion.

Sunday 12 September kicks off with a session with writer, broadcaster and entertainer Max Cryer, followed by Pacific writer and poet Albert Wendt reflecting on his latest novel The Adventures of Vela. Other highlights include a session with Joan Metge, Elizabeth Smither discussing her latest novel Lola, a discussion remembering distinguished writer Bill Pearson, a tribute to Paul Reynolds and The Final Word - a session with Graham Beattie, Fiona Farrell and Going West's festival programmer/originator, Murray Gray, discussing reading and the influence books have had on them.

Going West Books and Writers Festival is the only New Zealand literature festival which focuses solely on New Zealand writers and wordsmiths. Every year the weekend draws leading contemporary writers to discuss, debate and entertain.

For more information please visit www.goingwest.co.nz.