James Ball & Jesselyn Cook: Exploring the Dark Corners of the Internet

Take a closer look at the disturbing realities of online radicalisation and its impact on society with two acclaimed journalists, James Ball and Jesselyn Cook, as they explore the rise and influence of conspiracy theories, the far-right political movement QAnon and the rise global digital trolling.

This event brings together award-winning investigative journalist James Ball, author of The Other Pandemic: How QAnon Contaminated the World, and Jesselyn Cook, an American journalist joining via Zoom to discuss her groundbreaking book The Quiet Damage: QAnon and the Destruction of the American Family.

James Ball, whose reporting has earned him a Pulitzer Prize, takes a hard look at the insidious spread of QAnon, a far-right American political conspiracy theory and political movement that originated in 2017 that has infiltrated millions of minds worldwide, causing irreparable harm to communities and democracies. In The Other Pandemic, Ball examines how this movement has thrived in the shadowy corners of the internet, feeding on misinformation and exploiting social media algorithms. His work sheds light on the broader implications of this digital menace and offers insights into how it can be combated.

Joining him from America via Zoom, Jesselyn Cook, an investigative journalist with a focus on extremism and online radicalisation, will discuss The Quiet Damage, her harrowing account of how QAnon has torn apart American families and how that is casting its shadow in the UK, too. Cook’s reporting delves into the personal stories of individuals whose lives have been devastated by this conspiracy theory, offering a human perspective on the broader cultural and political ramifications. Together, these two journalists will provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon, from its origins to its global impact.

With misinformation and conspiracy theories posing a growing threat to society, this event offers crucial insights into one of the most dangerous movements of our time. Hear from two leading journalists who have dedicated their careers to uncovering the truth in the age of disinformation. Gain a transatlantic view of the QAnon phenomenon, understanding its impact both in the UK and the US. The conversation will explore not just the origins and spread of QAnon, but also the personal toll it has taken on families and individuals.

This event is essential for anyone interested in understanding the dark side of the internet and the real-world consequences of online radicalisation.

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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.