Take a Novel Journey of exploration at Belfast Book Festival

Translink’s Novel Journeys Book Club has teamed up with Belfast Book Festival for a special event highlighting self-exploration.

Two of Northern Ireland’s most inspired writers will take to the stage for a focused panel discussion on Friday 17 June at the Crescent Arts Centre in Belfast.

Author Bernie McGill will field questions about her latest release, ‘This Train is For’, which features on the latest Novel Journeys Monthly Digest. The virtual book club, hosted by Translink to showcase literature and local authors, recommends books for both children and adults, plus a podcast each month to promote time for yourself and the importance of boosting good mental health and wellbeing.

Bernie will be joined on stage by author David Park who has penned nine novels and a range of short stories. His latest book ‘Spies in the Canaan’ will be the main focus of the discussion, which explores the journey of human guilt, atonement and redemption.

Chris Conway, Group Chief Executive at Translink said:

“We started the Novel Journeys Book Club to promote reading as a way to unwind and relax whilst using our services. By recommending monthly books and podcasts, we’re supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our passengers and also highlighting the great range of local authors which Northern Ireland is so proud of. This event with Belfast Book Festival is a fantastic way to celebrate another year of Novel Journeys with independent bookstore, No Alibis and a great opportunity to champion the many benefits of reading.”

Sophie Hayles from the Crescent Arts Centre added:

“We are proud to be collaborating with Translink and No Alibis for a special event at the Belfast Book Festival. The ‘Translink’s Novel Journeys: David Park & Bernie McGill’ event not only promotes and supports Northern Irish authors but also allows them to engage directly with their readers. We look forward to welcoming fans of Novel Journeys to the Crescent Arts Centre.”

The event, which is free to attend, begins at 7pm. Attendees can meet the authors, to have a copy of the book signed. To find out more and register to attend visit: https://bit.ly/3QbQTun