Folkestone Welcomes Sarah Perry

Are you ready to reflect on the people who shape us, sustain us, and leave their mark on the world? On Thursday, 19 November 2026, at the Quarterhouse in Folkestone, Sarah Perry will discuss her remarkable memoir, Death of an Ordinary Man, a poignant account of her beloved father-in-law's final days. With tenderness, wit, and extraordinary insight, Perry transforms one family's experience of caregiving, grief, and goodbye into a meditation on the human condition.

This event will be chaired by Martin Latham, an author, historian, and bookseller with a lifetime of experience in bringing writers and readers together. Latham's own books, including Kent's Strangest Tales and The Bookseller's Tale, demonstrate his deep love of literature and his gentle curiosity about the human condition. His presence will undoubtedly add depth and nuance to the conversation, making this event a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of love, grief, and loss.

The Folkestone Book Festival, of which this event is a part, is a celebration of stories, ideas, and conversation by the sea. Curated by novelist Sophie Haydock, the festival brings together world-class writers, thinkers, and storytellers for two weeks of inspiring events. With over 60 events to choose from, there's something for every interest and passion. The festival is part of Folkestone is a Library, a town-wide celebration of reading, writing, and storytelling that aims to make Folkestone one of the UK's most exciting literary destinations.

The event is a chance to discover the vibrant arts scene in Folkestone, with its independent cafés, bars, and galleries. You can also browse the bookshop, explore the town, and share the experience with a friend. Tickets are with the button beside the article. The Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by several organizations, including Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival, ensuring that great conversations are accessible to everyone, with a £5 Cost of Living Ticket available for each event.

In this life-affirming conversation, Sarah Perry will explore the themes of memory, connection, and the bonds that survive us, making this event a must-attend for anyone who has loved, lost, cared for another, or wondered how we find meaning in the face of mortality. With its unique blend of literature, conversation, and community, the Folkestone Book Festival is an event not to be missed, and Sarah Perry's discussion of her memoir is a highlight of the festival.