Edinburgh Book Festival 2025: A Platform for Voices of Repair and Hope

The Edinburgh International Book Festival, one of the largest literary celebrations in the world, is set to take place from August 9 to 24, 2025, with a central theme focused on 'repair' amidst global crises. This year’s festival will feature prominent figures such as acclaimed author Hanif Kureishi, Palestinian poet Najwan Darwish, and Brazilian Indigenous leader Juma Xipaia, who will bring diverse perspectives on resilience and hope.

According to Jenny Niven, the festival director, the theme of repair aims to address widespread societal issues and foster a sense of optimism. "Repair is a positive, optimistic approach," Niven stated. "We’re hoping to present new writers and thinkers who offer solutions and new ideas that move the conversation forward," she added, highlighting the festival's intent to challenge despair in political and social discourse.

Kureishi, who has faced personal adversity following a serious fall that left him paralyzed, will deliver a unique narrative on the subject of repair. His participation is expected to resonate deeply with audiences, offering insights into personal and societal restoration.

The festival will kick off with an opening gala showcasing new works from Darwish, Xipaia, and other notable authors, including Jenni Fagan and Amitav Ghosh. Xipaia, who has lived in exile after opposing government corruption, will present her experiences and artistic expressions that reflect resilience against oppression, as noted in her recent interview with The Guardian (Carrell, 2025).

In addition to literary discussions, the festival aims to broaden its appeal by incorporating celebrity authors. Former Scotland footballer Ally McCoist will promote his autobiography, while Ruth Jones, writer and co-star of 'Gavin and Stacey', will participate in the festival's 'Front List' segment. Furthermore, former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will discuss her memoir, 'Frankly', in a conversation with journalist Kirsty Wark.

The festival will also feature an expanded series of cookery events, a response to last year’s successful culinary demonstrations. Participants can expect to engage with chefs like Sabrina Ghayour, who will offer insights into Persian cuisine, and José Pizarro, known for his Spanish culinary expertise. Niven emphasized that these cooking sessions have been strategically designed to enhance audience engagement, with tickets priced at up to £100 for exclusive experiences (Carrell, 2025).

This year’s event will take place in a newly renovated venue at Edinburgh University, formerly a Victorian hospital, which Niven believes will provide a fresh atmosphere conducive to creative exploration. The festival will include a mix of music, book-binding workshops, and theatrical productions, aiming to cater to a diverse audience.

As the festival approaches, the anticipation builds not only for the literary discussions but also for the cultural dialogues it hopes to inspire. The Edinburgh International Book Festival seeks to be not just a celebration of literature but a beacon of hope and a call to action for social repair in a fractured world.

Tickets for the festival will be available starting June 21, and given the popularity of past events, demand is expected to be high. The festival serves as a reminder of the vital role literature plays in healing and understanding, particularly in challenging times.