'Writers' festival have mushroomed in Australia in the last 20 years or so, with festivals big small and in between, general or themed, held in every state and territory and in city and regional areas. It seems the public appetite for these events only grows; and speaking at festivals is an inescapable part of any writer's calendar these days. Internationally, writers' festivals are also growing, and not only in the 'usual suspect' areas; from Bali to Slovenia, all kinds of places are getting in on the act.' (Author's introduction, 141)