Lev Parikian and Oliver Smith join forces for this engaging discussion that bridges the gap between the natural world and spiritual reflection. The two acclaimed writers will explore how landscapes, both physical and metaphorical, shape our understanding of life, history, and the divine.

Lev Parikian’s new book Taking Flight: The Evolutionary Story of Life on the Wing offers a sweeping look at the evolution of life on Earth through the story of birds. From the humble beginnings of the earliest birds to the present-day marvels of avian life, Parikian’s book is a celebration of nature’s ingenuity and beauty. His exploration of the natural world is not just scientific but deeply poetic, inviting readers to appreciate the wonders of life that often go unnoticed.

Oliver Smith’s On This Holy Island: A Modern Pilgrimage Across Britain takes readers on a pilgrimage through sacred sites, with a particular focus on Lindisfarne, one of the most spiritually resonant places in the UK. Smith’s narrative is rich with historical and cultural insights, weaving together the past and present, the spiritual and the physical, in a tapestry that highlights the profound connection between people and the places they hold sacred.

This event promises to be a rewarding exploration of the ways in which nature and spirituality intersect, offering new perspectives on how we relate to the world around us. Whether you are a lover of the natural world, a seeker of spiritual insight, or simply enjoy thoughtful and evocative writing, this conversation is not to be missed.

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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.

Lev Parikian and Oliver Smith: A Journey Through the Sacred and the Natural - Creative Folkestone