More than 25 years after she first captured the world’s imagination with Chocolat – the beloved, bestselling novel that became an Oscar-nominated film – Joanne returns to Lansquenet with Vianne, a stunning new chapter in the life of Vianne Rocher.
In this special event, Joanne will reflect on her extraordinary career and the enduring power of Chocolat, and share why now was the moment to revisit her most iconic character. With her trademark warmth, intelligence and sparkle, she’ll explore themes of identity, memory and transformation – as well as the sensory magic of place, scent and, of course… chocolate.
A passionate defender of authors’ rights and free expression, and former Chair of the Society of Authors, Joanne is one of the most influential and inspiring voices in British publishing. Join us for a luminous, unmissable opening night – and raise the curtain on eleven days of books, ideas and imagination in the most delicious way possible.
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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, bold ideas and the power of storytelling – by the sea. Curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s programme features more than 50 events over 11 days, bringing together world-class writers, radical thinkers and unforgettable conversations – all inspired by Folkestone’s spirit of enabling creativity and transformative change.
We want the festival to be for everyone. That’s why we’ve introduced a £5 ticket – a no-questions-asked option for anyone who might be struggling to afford events.
And if you’re planning to come to more than a handful of events, don’t miss our great-value Festival Pass, which gives you access to all events (excluding classes, which need to be booked separately) for just £140.
There’s so much to discover – from headline talks to intimate workshops, big ideas to local voices. Check out the full programme, including our much-loved Local Talent Showcase and a new series of Creative Writing Workshops designed to spark your imagination.
We delighted that our onsite bookseller this year is Waterstones Folkestone.
We thank our major sponsor Saga and supporting sponsors Eurotunnel, Holiday Extras and Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival along with our Education Partner, Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year’s festival possible. Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.