Dan Evans, Vicky Spratt & Yvonne Singh: Class, Power and the Rise of the Far Right

Explore the intersections of class, power and the resurgence of the far right in the UK with three acclaimed authors Dan Evans, Vicky Spratt and Yvonne Singh. This event promises to be an illuminating exploration of the socio-political forces shaping our world today.

Dan Evans, author of Nation of Shopkeepers, unpacks the cultural and economic factors that have driven the resurgence of the petite-bourgeoisie. This class is positioned precariously between the working and upper-middle classes. It has been, historically, the base of political groups such as the Nazi Party, as well as Marxist and Anarchist movements. Dan explores how it continues to play a pivotal role in the shifting political landscape.

The rise of home ownership and small landlordism under Thatcher grew the petite-bourgeoise and the conditions that led to the housing emergency. This will be analysed expertly by journalist Vicky Spratt, drawing from her research for her book Tenants.

Faversham-based, journalist and writer Yvonne Singh illuminates the historical connection between race, class and the media's role in perpetuating or challenging the status quo in her forthcoming book INK! From the Age of Empire to Black Power.

Together, these authors will examine how economic inequality, housing insecurity, the media and the legacy of colonialism contributed to creating the racist violence that swept the UK this year. They will discuss the challenges and opportunities for resistance, and how we can build a more equitable society by tackling the root causes of these growing threats.

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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.

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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.

Or grab a festival pass and enjoy the whole festival for just £140. Click here to book your festival pass

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We thank our sponsors Eurotunnel, Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.

Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.