Name: Michelle Duffy.
Age: 29
Occupation: Factory Worker
Number of Festivals attended: 3
Favourite author: Kevin Wignall
Favourite book: SleepyHead, Mark Billingham
Best festival event: The ‘New Blood’ panels are usually really good and the debate panels such as research vs. none etc…
You’re a regular at the Festival. For those intimidated to come alone, or who have never been, what insider tips do you offer?
If the atmosphere can hold and the writers remain present around the Hotel between events it gives those shy people a chance to approach an author. I remember sitting on my own in the reception during my first visit and Ann Cleeves coming to sit with me. You can’t buy comfort and Ann being a true lady put me at ease in what could have been a daunting 20 minutes.
For anyone coming this year alone, any advice on the best places to hang out and meet people in Harrogate?
If I were going on my own I would simply go to the bar, whether drinking or not. You could sit with a coffee and before long you would end up chatting to people with similar interests to you.
The book signing events are a great place to start up a conversation too; I’ve met many lovely people whilst standing in a queue.
The Festival is one heck of a gathering; can you offer attendees a survival guide?
I usually plan my weekend in advance. I study the events and plan which ones I want to attend. Then I plan my meals around them. If at all possible I highly recommend staying in or near the hotel, that way you can take a “breather” if you’re getting tired.
Say you’re a big fan of a particular author, what tips can you give about approaching them in the bar for a chat?
If you have a smile on your face and don’t interrupt another conversation, you’ll have no problems having a chat with any of your favorites! The authors are very approachable, just remember, ‘Manners are free’.
The festival often involves a lot of activity at the bar! Have you any embarrassing moments you’d like to share?
Oh God No ;o)…..
How would you describe the festival to someone who’s never been but you think would really get a lot out of it?
I’ve told plenty of people about this event and my usual lines include:
Being surrounded by creative people and a fantastic atmosphere.
Meeting and chatting with your favourite authors in a very friendly environment.
Having a varied and full listing of panels.
As a social outlet I have made many friends from all parts of the world through this festival.
If you’re a writer the Thursday writing classes are a great opportunity to get advice from someone who was once in your shoes.
Have you got a favourite memory – if so, with whom, what year, and why?
Meeting John Connolly and Kevin [Wignall] at separate times but in the bar afterwards and having a great conversation with each. Where else would this be possible? It’s what makes Harrogate unique.
Is there anyone you’re particularly looking forward to at 2009’s event?
The usual bunch – Simon Kernick, Ann Cleeves and Mark Billingham. What would Harrogate be without them?
Have you made any good friends with other fans or authors as a result of the festival?
I’m a member of the Billingham Talk Zone (Mark’s forum) and I stay in touch with a lot of Harrogate fans through that. Otherwise I stay in touch with a number of people via email all of who I have met over the years at this festival.
I have even met up with some people in between festivals.
Why do you think crime authors attract such dedicated fans?
Maybe it’s because these writers are so personable and approachable. I can’t think of one crime writer that I haven’t taken a liking to when I met them!
One of the huge things to remember about Harrogate is that the writers are not hidden away in a green room. They sign up for chats and questions when the sign up for Harrogate, and they take the time to mingle and share the weekend with the punters. That’s what makes it special.
Why do crime books rock your boat? Is it an obsession?
It is an obsession; I love a book I can’t solve before the ending. That’s a great book.
Everyone says how lovely and nice crime authors are, do you agree? If so, why do you think those who write about the darkest sides of humanity are so nice in person?
I don’t really think it matters. I’m sure I couldn’t possibly like every single crime writer out there; however, it’s their work that counts. If you write a good book you get my respect for that. Anything else is just a bonus.
I think crime writers are a lot more down to earth because there is no snobbery with the genre. It’s a dirty business and everyone has a story that can be related to crime. It’s a topical subject.
All walks of life were drawn in by the Superman movies, maybe we can all relate to the underdog being a hero.
Have you any gossip you can share (you don’t have to name names!)
Where would I begin, he he!
Who would be on your dream Festival line-up?
Jonathon Kellerman interviewed by Mark Billingham.
Kevin Wignall and Laura Lippman in an open discussion about their characters and how they built the stories up around them.
Val McDermid in an hour long talk about her writing (presentation style, no interviewer).
I absolutely loved Harlen Coben on the panel with Lee Child, those two bounced off each other like a comedy duo.
And I think for the new blood some of the bigger names should be mixed on the panel. Maybe a theme like ‘the old and the new’ making comparisons to the ‘then and now’ of kick starting your career. That would be a great panel.
[I]t’s not all about the names for me, it’s the content and what people can bring home. Harrogate always seemed to be a people’s festival. I hope you strive to keep it that way.
Anything you want to add?
I admire the hard work you all put into making the Harrogate festival as brilliant as it is. And I find it admirable that after so many years you maintain the atmosphere. For me that’s what keeps me coming back as often as possible. I know many people who mention Harrogate throughout the year in conversation and this is a testament to how memorable it is. Well done, guys!
