Alasdair Gill: Knives, Spoons and Survival

For years, Alasdair Gill worked in some of London’s most prestigious restaurants, chasing perfection in one of the world’s most demanding industries. Behind the adrenaline and creativity, however, lay a darker world of addiction, excess and survival.
In his memoir, Knives and Spoons, Gill takes readers inside the intense culture of professional kitchens, reflecting on family, ambition and growing up as the son of the late journalist and critic AA Gill. Brutally honest, darkly funny and ultimately hopeful, it is a story of obsession, identity, recovery and the search for purpose.
In conversation with chef and food writer Jon Spiteri, Gill discusses the realities of life behind the pass, the long road back from addiction, and how food can both shape and save us. Expect a gripping, revealing and deeply human conversation.
FIND OUT MORE
Events last one hour unless otherwise stated, followed by a book signing in The Clearing. Our official bookseller is Waterstones.
Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of stories, ideas and conversation by the sea. Curated by novelist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s festival brings together more than 60 events across two weeks, welcoming world-class writers, thinkers and storytellers to Folkestone.
Discover another event, browse the bookshop, explore Folkestone’s vibrant arts scene, independent cafés, bars and galleries, and share the experience with a friend. The best festivals are as much about the conversations between events as those on stage.
The Festival is part of Folkestone is a Library, our ambitious town-wide celebration of reading, writing and storytelling, helping make Folkestone one of the UK’s most exciting literary destinations.
We believe great conversations should be for everyone, which is why every event includes a £5 Cost of Living Ticket, available with no questions asked.
Please help us spread the word. Together, we’re building a thriving community of readers, writers and curious minds.
Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, Holiday Extras, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. Creative Folkestone is supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Saga. Founding Funder The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.