Keele Hall Readings; Luke Kennard

Tuesday 24 November 2026
5.00-7.00pm
Keele Hall

Join acclaimed poet, novelist and critic Luke Kennard for a special evening at Keele Hall.

One of the UK's most distinctive contemporary literary voices, Kennard has received widespread critical recognition for both his poetry and fiction. His collections have explored subjects ranging from absurdism and theology to psychology and lyric poetry, earning numerous accolades including the Forward Prize for Best Collection for Notes on the Sonnets (2021). His collection Cain was shortlisted for the International Dylan Thomas Prize, while his debut novel, The Transition, was shortlisted for the Desmond Elliott Award and featured as a BBC Radio 4 Book at Bedtime.

Kennard's most recent poetry collection, The Book of Jonah (2025), was published by Picador, and his latest novel, Black Bag (2026), was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, cementing his reputation as one of the most innovative and influential writers working today.

Currently Professor of Literature and Creative Writing at the University of Birmingham, Kennard also reviews fiction and poetry for The Guardian, The Telegraph and The Times Literary Supplement.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a major contemporary author as he discusses his work, creative process and literary career.

All are welcome.