Karen McLeod - Lifting Off - In conversation

Lifting Off is a fly on the wall tale of flying long-haul, drinking miniatures, hotel bedroom parties with the rest of the crew, one-night stands in exotic locations and the loneliness of having to deny your true self.

Karen McLeod’s account of flying as long-haul cabin crew offers a fascinating insight into the profound impact of airline life. Having come out as a lesbian shortly before getting the job, she is forced to go back in as colleagues advise her that it’s not OK to be gay, unlike male cabin crew.

It is the story of how Karen McLeod saved herself and finally came into land.

Karen will be in conversation with festival director Wayne Berkeley Herbert, and we’re hoping not to be interrupted by a certain poet of the people who tends to follow Karen around!

‘An absorbing and often hilarious account of the author’s 12 years as closeted cabin crew for BA & the profound impact that had on her life as a gay woman’ The Bookseller, Editor’s Choice

‘Beautiful, wise and funny…I really did love it’ Evie Wyld

Anny Knight, local poet-performer who has appeared at many women's events and Prides all over the UK, wil be opening the event.

This event is being sponsored by the Hastings and Rother Rainbow Alliance which has been supporting LGBTQIA+ people for over 20 years through social events and advocacy. The Hastings Book Festival is very grateful for this kind support.

Host or Publisher Hastings Book Festival