Roberto Sendoya Escobar: My Story

Get ready for an unforgettable highlight of the festival with the extraordinary Roberto Sendoya Escobar! Now an acclaimed artist living in Majorca and author of First Born, Roberto shares his incredible journey of living in the shadow of the notorious Pablo Escobar, the infamous Colombian cocaine baron and leader of the Medellín Cartel.

In this electrifying event, Roberto will reveal the harrowing details of his traumatic childhood, including the brutal murder of his 14-year-old mother when he was just a baby. Raised in the UK by a man he claims was part of MI5, he only discovered the shocking truth about his father’s identity — Pablo Escobar — when he was in his twenties.

Through candid storytelling, Roberto will explore the dark realities of his unconventional upbringing and the violent world of the drug trade. He’ll discuss the legacy of the Narcos phenomenon and the complex feelings surrounding his father’s infamous notoriety, leaving the audience to ponder the question: what does it truly mean to bear such a heavy legacy?

This is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand from someone who lived at the epicenter of one of history's most notorious criminal families. If you’re captivated by true crime stories, tales of personal resilience, or the intricate dynamics of legacy and identity, this event is not to be missed!

Chaired by the engaging Lara Johnson-Wheeler, an arts and fashion journalist, this evening promises to be both thought-provoking and riveting. With her unique insights, Lara adds another layer of intrigue to this already thrilling discussion.

Join us for an extraordinary evening that intertwines history, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of one man determined to forge his own identity against a backdrop of infamy and intrigue. Come and make up your own mind about this incredible story!

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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.