Brian Blessed and Kate Mosse among line-up for Book Week Scotland in Glasgow

Brian Blessed, Kate Mosse and David MacPhail are among the special guests set to appear in Glasgow as part of this year’s Book Week Scotland. Taking place November 23-29, the week-long celebration of reading and books will feature a diverse range of events and speakers at venues across the city.

His booming voice, unmistakeable method of storytelling and indomitable spirit have made Brian Blessed a fully-fledged icon and he’ll be appearing at Glasgow Film Theatre talking about his new book ‘Absolute Pandemonium’. Tracing his life from growing up as the son of a miner to starring in cult roles in ‘Flash Gordon’ and ‘Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace’, the autobiography will be discussed by Brian in his trademark style. The discussion on Sunday November 29 will be followed by an audience Q&A and a screening of ‘Flash Gordon’.

International bestselling author Kate Mosse will also be appearing in Glasgow to discuss her new book ‘The Taxidermist’s Daughter’, an atmospheric gothic thriller set in Sussex in 1912, at Waterstone’s on Sauchiehall Street on Monday November 23. Meanwhile, crime writers Caro Ramsay and Neil Broadfoot will go head-to-head in ‘Assault and Vinegar versus Assault and Sauce’ where they’ll discuss whether Glasgow or Edinburgh provide the best setting for a crime novel at the Mitchell Library on Thursday November 26.

The Glasgow programme will also include family-friendly events including David MacPhail presents 'Thorfinn the Nicest Viking'; stories and songs in Gaelic at Leugh Le Linda; and events dedicated to books turned into films such as Roald Dahl’s ‘Matilda’ and JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ series, complete with screenings.

Book Week Scotland will also include the launch of a new campaign, #ThankBooks, encouraging members of the public to share how books have changed their lives and more than 300,000 free books will also be given away.

The full programme for Book Week Scotland is out now.

Book Week Scotland, November 23-29, various venues.