Alan Bilton will host the International Dylan Thomas Prize for the third time at the Taliesin Theatre on Thursday 16th May

Launched in 2006, the annual Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize is one of the most prestigious awards for young writers, aimed at encouraging raw creative talent worldwide. It celebrates and nurtures international literary excellence.

It is one of the UK’s most prestigious literary prizes as well as one of the world’s largest literary prizes for young writers. Awarded for the best published literary work in the English language, written by an author aged 39 or under, the Prize celebrates the international world of fiction in all its forms including poetry, novels, short stories and drama.

The prize is named after the Swansea-born writer, Dylan Thomas, and celebrates his 39 years of creativity and productivity. One of the most influential, internationally-renowned writers of the mid-twentieth century, the prize invokes his memory to support the writers of today and nurture the talents of tomorrow.

Join us at the inspirational Landmark Trust property, The Threshing Barn, Llwyn Celyn for an exciting event delving into the world of crime fiction and narrative.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a curious reader, this event is perfect for anyone interested in the art of crafting compelling crime stories. Learn from author and lecturer in Creative Writing at Swansea University, Dr Alan Bilton, and join The Hay Writers’ Circle to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of mysteries and suspense. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the secrets behind plotting the perfect crime!

This workshop is open for anyone to attend but pre-booking is essential.

Tickets from https://thehaywriters.wordpress.com/

Alan Bilton will be in conversation with the terrific thriller writer Morgan Greene, discussing his dark new thriller, Savage Ridge, at Waterstones, Swansea, Wednesday 17th April, 6pm. Just a few tickets left!

https://www.waterstones.com/events/morgan-greene-author-of-savage-ridge-in-conversation-with-alan-bilton/swansea

Alan Bilton will be joining the Hay Scribblers for a Creative Writing workshop based around the theme of ‘Stories and Journeys’ at the Taliesin Theatre, Swansea University, 31st Jan & 7th February

Eddie Matthews will be reading from Border Memories as part of Small Press Nite at The Book Catapult, 3010b Juniper Street, San Diego, Saturday January 27th, 7pm, Free entry.

Alan Bilton will discuss Russia, War and Madness in The End of The Yellow House, followed by a Creative Writing Workshop, Brynaman Library, Friday 26th January, 10.30.

Alan Bilton will be in conversation about ‘The Shape of Her’, ‘The End of The Yellow House’, historical fiction and thrillers at Waterstones Swansea, Thursday 9th November, 9pm. Free tickets from Anne Lauppe-Dunbar in conversation with Alan Bilton - Swansea Tickets, Thu 9 Nov 2023 at 18:00 | Eventbrite

‘ Join Alan Bilton for two free creative writing workshop at the Dylan Thomas Centre. Saturday November 4 & 11th 10.30-12.30

Plotting Your Novel
You may have a great idea for a book - but how do you turn it into a 200-page novel? This hands-on workshop looks at how to plot and structure a novel, from how to shape a narrative, to issues of rhythm, pace, and drama. It explores the best ways of mapping out a long piece of fiction and explores the elements that will keep your readers turning the page. https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/dylanthomas/plotting-your-novel-a-workshop-for-adults-with-alan-bilton/e-pxdzad

Getting Published

Publishing may be more accessible and diverse than ever, but getting your work into print can still seem like banging on a locked door. This practical and hands-on workshop looks at self-publishing, independents, agents, and rights, and also gives you a chance to pitch your ideas and polish up your new proposal. https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/dylanthomas/getting-published-a-workshop-for-adults-with-alan-bilton/e-dglrav

Alan Bilton will be discussing Magic Realism and Dream Fiction in a hands-on Creative Writing Workshop, Swansea Central Library, Saturday October 14th, 11-12. All welcome!

Alan Bilton will be talking to Cathy Faulkner and Catherine Fisher about their terrific new books, Digging for Victory and The Red Gloves (Firefly) at the Children’s Literature Festival, Swansea Waterfront Musuem, Sunday 8th October, 4pm.

You can book free tickets at https://www.swansea.ac.uk/cultural-institute/events/childrens-literature-festival-2023/events-and-booking/ 

The Known and Unknown Sea

Anywhere Out of the World

now in stock from Watermark

Thanks to our friends at Cillian Press, you can now order copies of Alan Bilton’s earlier books - his Magic Realist story of one boy’s trip to the shadowy ‘other side’, The Known and Unknown Sea, and his collection of comic, absurd, surrealist short stories, Anywhere Out of The World.

Both are available from the Watermark store. Limited numbers, so pick up a copy today!

How To Plot Your Novel

Swansea Central Library, Thursday 21st September, 5-6.30

Alan Bilton will be running a Creative Writing workshop on ‘How To Plot Your Novel’ at Swansea Central Library, Thursday 21st September, 5-6.30, All welcome! You can pre-book via the library at 01792 636464