Ian Rankin Heads to Malta Book Festival
Malta’s literary scene is buzzing with anticipation as crime author Ian Rankin, creator of the iconic Inspector Rebus series, is set to grace the Malta Book Festival as this year’s international guest. The festival, held annually at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, will see Rankin taking centre stage on November 10th, much to the delight of local bookworms and crime fiction enthusiasts.
Rankin’s Malta Connection
Rankin’s visit to Malta is not his first. The Scottish author has previously holidayed on the island, and his love for Malta’s rich history and culture is evident in his works. His 2017 novel, ‘In a House of Lies’, features a Maltese character, Dr. Alex Thanet, who plays a significant role in the story. This personal connection makes Rankin’s appearance at the Malta Book Festival all the more exciting for local readers.
What to Expect at the Festival
The Malta Book Festival, now in its 14th edition, is more than just a literary event. It’s a celebration of words, ideas, and creativity that brings together local and international authors, publishers, and readers. Rankin’s visit is part of the festival’s ongoing effort to bring top-tier international literature to Malta. He will be participating in a series of events, including book signings, panel discussions, and a public lecture.
Rankin’s public lecture, titled ‘Writing Crime Fiction: From Rebus to the Present’, promises to offer a fascinating insight into his creative process. He will discuss his journey as a writer, the evolution of his iconic character Inspector Rebus, and his latest works. The event will be held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre’s Main Hall on November 10th at 7:30 PM, with tickets available at the festival’s official website.
Rankin on Malta and His Writing
In an interview with Hot Malta, Rankin expressed his excitement about returning to Malta. “I’ve always found Malta’s history and culture inspiring,” he said. “The island’s unique blend of influences, from the Phoenicians to the Knights of St. John, makes it a fascinating place to set a story.” When asked about his writing process, Rankin revealed, “I often start with a place or a character. In ‘In a House of Lies’, it was Malta and Dr. Thanet. The story grows from there, like a crime scene map.”
