York Literature Festival kicks off this week for a month-long celebration of written and spoken word.

Professor John Goodby and Scholar Dylan Thomas will hold the first event on Thursday, March 6th: ‘Dylan Thomas: The Life Versus the Legend’ in York Explore Library at 6pm.

Goodby, in a post on his Facebook page, said: “[I’m] Incredibly chuffed to be part of the York Literature Festival.

“I’ll be talking about the writing of the new Dylan biography… trying to debunk some of the gaudier Dylan myths and exploring the more genuinely extraordinary aspects of his life and work.”

Over 37 Talks and showcases will be held throughout March across several venues around the city such as- Theatre@41, St Peter’s School, York Explore Library and Joseph Rowntree School.

In line with International Women’s Week, on Friday there is a poetry showcase beginning 7pm at Theatre@41 dedicated to celebrating female poets and local talents.

Headlining this event is highly acclaimed poet, editor and critic Mary Jean Chan who will be performing later in the evening.

This year’s sponsor, York St John University, are playing host to several talks and book launches.

Dr Rob O’Connor, Director of York Literature Festival and Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing at York St John University said:

“The York Literature Festival team is so pleased with the variety of events we have this year, which include high-profile literary authors, events for children, poetry, masterclass workshops and spoken word performance.”

Later this month Dr Rob O’Connor is leading a conversation on fantasy fiction with author Susanna Clarke.

You can book tickets for any of the 37 events here but be quick, tickets are selling out fast!

There is also a brochure, designed by Craig Walton, which gives an outline of what’s on, when and where.