BOOKS: WAYS WITH WORDS

DARTINGTON FESTIVAL

8 - 15 July 1998

For seven days in July, the Ways With Words Literary Festival takes place in the magical atmosphere of Dartington Hall. And as usual there's a rich mix of talks and discussions featuring broadcasters, politicians and great writers like Mario Vargas Llosa (left); and provocative topics like the death of Diana, Blair's first year, feminism and censorship. Novelists

Julie Myerson and Geoff Dyer talk about writing on sex; Miranda Seymour (left) discusses the Robert Graves/Laura Riding love affair, which informs her novel The Telling; Philippa Gregory talks about the life of gardener John Tradescant, the subject of her historical novel; plus Barbara Trapido, Ben Okri (below) and Mary Wesley. Poetry and Cabaret

Actress Juliet Stevenson reads Survivor's poetry; Matthew Sweeney and Pascale Petit discuss the link between creativity and mental distress. And, on a lighter note, those fabulous dames Fascinating Aida present their own brand of sexy, satirical cabaret. Plus much more - why not send off for a brochure with full details.

Reader offer: prices for the full package, including full-board accommodation and entry to all main events, start at pounds 445 pp in a twin room. There is also a special weekend package at pounds 165 pp. For a brochure and full booking details, send your name and address to Ways With Words, Droridge Farm, Dartington, Devon TQ9 6JQ, enclosing 2 x 26p stamps.