Don't miss this gripping discussion with Asad Qureshi, author of 165 Days: Prisoner of the Taliban, as he shares his harrowing firsthand account of being held captive by the Taliban.

Asad’s story is one of survival against unimaginable odds, offering an insider’s perspective on the resilience required to endure such a traumatic experience.

Asad will be in conversation with Dr Christiana Spens, author of The Portrayal and Punishment of Terrorists in Western Media and The Fear. Christiana’s work delves into how Western media shapes public perceptions of terrorism and dissent, often influencing the political and social response to these complex issues. Her latest book, The Fear, also explores the psychological impact of terrorism and the ways in which fear is manipulated by both terrorists and those who fight them.

Hear directly from Asad Qureshi about his experience as a prisoner of the Taliban, the challenges he faced and the emotional and psychological toll of his ordeal. How do individual stories like Asad’s fit into the broader media portrayal of terrorism, and what can be done to ensure these narratives are accurately represented?

Gain a rare insight into the personal experience of surviving captivity by one of the world’s most feared terrorist organisations. Engage with two experts who bring both personal experience and academic rigour to one of the most pressing issues of our time.

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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.

Asad Qureshi and Christiana Spens: Surviving the Taliban - Creative Folkestone