Football Writing Festival 2020 Calendar
23 November 2020 - 27 November 2020
7pm - 8pm
The Football Writing Festival is back for its seventh season. This year's festival will take place behind closed doors - but we're giving you the best seat to see all the week's action unfold.
Over five nights, we will be talking to a host of writers about their latest books, delving into the stories and issues of the game with the festival's trademark insight and humour. Best of all, you can see this year's event for free, streaming on our Facebook and YouTube channels. Get the latest updates by following our socials below:
Believe Us: Melissa Reddy
Monday 23 November 2020, 7pm
The National Football Museum’s Dickie Felton joins journalist Melissa Reddy to learn about her brand new book Believe Us. From 35,000 frenzied fans tracking Jurgen Klopp’s flight upon arrival, through to Liverpool’s long awaited first Premier League win less than 5 years later, here we get unparalleled access to the inside scoop. We learn how Jurgen Klopp's astonishing revival of one of global football’s dormant giants really played out.
Price of Football: Kieran Maguire
Tuesday 24 November 2020, 7pm
The National Football Museum’s Jon Sutton quizzes football finance expert Kieran Maguire in a wide-ranging and illuminating conversation. In this hugely topical discussion, Kieran and Jon examine how professional football clubs operate, with a particular focus on ‘red flags’ and what should make you raise an eyebrow when it comes to your own club!
Your Show: Ashley Hickson-Lovence
Wednesday 25 November 2020, 7pm
The National Football Museum’s Sam Broadley catches up with Ashley Hickson-Lovence. The author behind Your Show - an upcoming novel based on the career of legendary referee Uriah Rennie - gives us a stunning insight into the life of the first black official in the history of the Premier League. Ashley also treats us to a hugely exciting first glimpse of the novel, which is yet to be seen anywhere else!
Kicking Off: Eve Ainsworth
Thursday 26 November 2020, 7pm
The remarkable story of the Dick, Kerr Ladies is one that is well represented on the galleries of the National Football Museum. Curator Belinda Scarlett has caught up with award-winning author Eve Ainsworth about her new book Kicking Off, which brings this astonishing story to life for a new generation. They look at war and social histories, powerful female role models and jaw-dropping technical skills with something for everyone in this 30-minute conversation.
Made in Africa: Ed Aarons
Friday 27 November 2020, 7pm
Christian from our Communities team talks to author Ed Aarons about his brilliantly insightful new book, Made in Africa. From Arthur Wharton to Mohamed Salah, Albert Johanneson to Didier Drogba, the pair look at the history of African players in English football. This fascinating discussion looks at the personal stories behind pioneers in the game and in many instances how confronting racism has helped change the face of English football forever.
