Books Talk Back events offer an opportunity for aspiring authors to meet and ask questions to a published author and gain insight and ideas on a career in creative writing. Books Talk Back also provides a chance to meet fellow readers, writers and community enthusiasts.

These non-profit events consist of a guest author, two pre-selected participants and a room full of guests.  The two aspiring authors read an extract of their unpublished novel to an audience and published author, then receive feedback from both. The audience of guests are welcome to ask questions throughout. The idea is for aspiring authors to have an opportunity to share their work in a relaxed, friendly environment whilst gaining some constructive feedback to help them develop their writing.

The events have gained support from The Prince’s Trust, The British Library and National Centre for Writing.

Books Talk Back is the initiative of Isabelle King. Frustrated by the lack of fair opportunity for people who lacked the time and money to take a writing course, Isabelle was determined to set up some non-profit events that offered constructive critique to new writers and showcased fresh voices, as well as being a chance to meet fellow literary enthusiasts and eat biscuits.

Isabelle set up the first event in the pub where she worked in South Ealing. She continues to run events all over the place and hopes the experience of attending is encouraging and fun.