Day three of the Borders Book Festival features more big names from the world of sport, politics, TV and much more.
And there will be lots for children of all ages to do.
The popular event takes place at Harmony Garden in Melrose.
And free shuttle buses will co-ordinate with Tweedbank Railway Station train arrivals/departures and Borders Book Festival events.
Here’s what’s on today.
The circus is packed but disaster strikes when Tweedy the Clown loses something crucial! Join the real-life clown in this hilarious performance based on his book about losing his nose.
Award-winning author Alan Windram shares his debut chapter book about cats Sparky and George’s hilarious adventures. Expect feline frolics, explosive poo, and interactive fun with songs.
Twelve-year-old evacuee Eilidh discovers dark secrets and ancient magic beneath a remote Scottish island’s lighthouse in Jude Reid’s mysterious tale.
Led by Braxton this guided meditation holds the space for stillness and silence, as you’re taken on an awareness journey inward.
Join children’s author Nick Sharratt for a hair-larious event featuring his new book Mullets, exploring hairstyles in favourite picture books with drawing fun!
This event is FREE but ticket required. The 300 Words Creative Writing Competition returns, inviting Scottish pupils to explore the nation’s history and legends inspired by the Great Tapestry of Scotland.
Alistair Moffat and granddaughter Grace celebrate Molly Mason: The Pet Detective in a family-friendly interactive session where young audiences help create the next mystery.
Penny Mordaunt explores British pomp and circumstance in her new book with Chris Lewis, revealing how traditions aren’t just ceremonial but help navigate the future. Chaired by Gavin Esler.
BBC Radio Four presenter Claudia offers a practical psychological toolkit in her new book Overwhelmed. Each chapter tackles common problems like procrastination and imposter syndrome.
Join Waldo Pancake (Jim Smith) for a lively event packed with cartooning tips, brain-boosting science facts, and a fun draw-along session. Bring paper and drawing materials!
Travis bassist Dougie Payne presents his debut picture book Poochie Pete and his Very Big Feet about a dog seeking belonging through music, with songs and live drawing.
Join author Yasmin Hanif for interactive storytelling and games as Abdullah searches for the perfect name for his new Eid teddy, exploring the importance of names.
Teen author Bruna De Luca leads a fun workshop showing how to transform real-life moments into vivid fiction through creative prompts and quick exercises.
Despite global fame as Outlander’s Jamie Fraser, Sam hasn’t forgotten his Galloway roots. He launched Sassenach Spirits and wrote bestselling books about Scotland.
Former Head of the Diplomatic Service Peter Ricketts reveals the gripping story of Foreign Office diplomats working behind the scenes during WWII
Best-selling author Chris Smith presents an interactive storytelling adventure, revealing what happened to Julian, Dick, Anne and George as adults and introducing the New Famous Five series.
Illustrator Tom Morgan-Jones leads a monster-filled draw-along for all the family. Create your own creatures, dream up wild stories and discover tips to make drawings burst with character.
Louise Gooding, Minna’s Masks: Minna uses masks to feel brave, but forgets them on her first day at a new school. A friend shows his own mask, teaching her about acceptance and inclusion.
Storyteller Nicola Toneri shares tales of Thomas the Rhymer and other Border legends at atmospheric Melrose Abbey beneath the Eildon Hills. Outdoor event.
One of the world’s most beloved storytellers, Alexander McCall Smith returns with trademark warmth and wit. Join Sandy for an uplifting conversation about his latest works.
Justinee Picardie, author of Miss Dior explores how Queen Mary, the Queen Mother, Duchess of Windsor and Queen Elizabeth II used fashion and imagery to safeguard the monarchy.
Broadcaster Martin Frizell discusses Remember When, his wife Fiona Phillips’ powerful account of living with early-onset Alzheimer’s at 61. A moving conversation about love and resilience.
Sculptor Jake Harvey and book artist Helen Douglas share their two-year research in North Uist’s Lewisian gneiss complex, joined by geologist Alan McKirdy.
Shona Kinsella and RM Brown bring Scotland’s past to life through folklore and imagination, exploring witchcraft during the 1745 Jacobite uprising and political conflict in the capital.
Pam Ayres’ career-defining collected works showcase why she became Britain’s best-selling poet.
Peter Burns celebrates Murrayfield’s century with 100 iconic matches from their book. Joined by legends Hastings, Irvine and Laidlaw for tales of triumph and heartbreak.
Sally Magnusson’s The Shapeshifter’s Daughter reimagines Norse myth as terminally ill Helen returns to Orkney after 40 years, seeking peace and death with help from Thorfinn.
Edinburgh midwife Linda McDonald OBE began selling recipe books in 2005 to help mothers in Malawi. Over 55,000 copies sold in 12 years, drawing her deeper into women’s lives there.
Henry Borthwick’s A Journey from Oxton to Fala uncovers dormant tales of Hollywood actors, witches, and outlaws from Borders parishes where his family has lived since 1458.
Three Borders Society of Authors writers explore how real life influences fiction in an illustrated talk, examining whether we might all be characters in someone’s novel.
Beloved broadcaster Lorraine Kelly reflects on her remarkable career and move into fiction writing, discussing her latest novel The Island Secret, set in Orkney.
Historian Tim Willasey-Wilsey reveals the astonishing true story of Baron William de Ropp, MI6’s secret agent inside Hitler’s inner circle in 1930s Berlin. Chaired by James Naughtie.
Dr Emily Leeming returns with Fibre Power, combining cutting-edge research with 60 delicious recipes to show how boosting fibre transforms health and mood.
Acclaimed novelist Tina Makereti explores her powerful new novel The Mires, set in near-future Aotearoa. Three women’s lives intertwine amid environmental change.
Bridget Khursheed and Craig Aitchison discuss environment, family and language, showing how Border poetry reaches beyond local to universal themes.
Two Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers bandmates celebrate publishing milestones: Chris Brookmyre’s thirty years with new Jack Parlabane mystery, Doug Johnstone’s twenty years.
Natalie Haynes brings Medea’s myth to life in a brilliant one-woman show. As Jason seeks the Golden Fleece, Medea can save him – but at what cost? Drama and wit.
Former Royal Marine Paul Harris shares his inspiring true story of walking the entire British coastline twice – a journey of resilience, recovery, kindness and the healing power of nature.
Full details on tickets and venues are available on the Borders Book Festival website:
Online: www.bordersbookfestival.org
By phone: 0131 290 2112
The phone line is open Monday to Friday, 10.00am – 4.00pm (excluding bank holidays).
This is a call-back service. To book, please leave your name and phone number and you will be called back based on your position in the queue.
