From Astronauts to Geneticists, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature Has It All, says Festival Director
The Festival has always put great impetus on its children’s programme, because it has been proven that attracting
children to reading and literature at a young age develops their capacity for learning and for success. A number of science authors attending the Festival will be sharing their stories of becoming involved in their fields when they were still children. Zoologist NicolaDavies’ numerous picture books for children will delight the younger audiences, as will the lively and engaging Nick Arnold, whose Horrible Science series has always been a big hit with children.
Lucy Hawking has successfully coaxed youngsters into loving science through her George
Greenby series and she will be discussing her inspiration for writing and her experience working with her father and co-author, renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking.
The Science of Health
Those looking for tips on holistic living, Joe Wicks, known as The Body Coach, can help you get fit in 15 minutes. Emirati founder of award-winning Pilates studio The Hundred, AsmaHilalLootah will also be on hand to exercise your mind, body and spirit.
For a little inspiration, meet Julie Lewis an intrepid explorer and advocate for optimal health, who has led 50 expeditions to more than 20 countries.
And let’s not forget about the importance of feeding children correctly. MumpreneurAnnabel Karmel discusses work-life balance and the nutritional value of your toddler’s meals.
Stranger than Fiction
We can still dare to dream! Festival organisers haven’t forgotten where it all started. Science fiction remains an intrinsic part of the programme. Festival favourite Noura Al Noman returns to discuss the first two books of her award-winning science-fiction trilogy Ajwan and Jenny Colgan (or JT Colgan for fans of her Dr. Who novel Dark Horizons) will talk about blurring the boundaries between genres.
Reasons to Stay Alive author Matt Haig, who has also written science-fiction books, tells us his first-hand experience of dealing with depression.The 2013 Hugo Award winner Brandon
Sanderson has won worldwide acclaim for continuing Robert Jordan’s epic fantasy series The Wheel of Time, not forgetting his books for young adults.
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