Keynote: An Evening with Catherine Chidgey

Step into the brilliant world of Catherine Chidgey, a rockstar of New Zealand literature. Her latest novel, The Book of Guilt, ignited an international bidding war and has become a runaway bestseller. Since her debut in 1998, Chidgey has won numerous awards, including the Jann Medlicott Acorn Prize for Fiction—twice, a first in Aotearoa’s literary history. Her work is known for its rich language, unforgettable characters, and gripping plots. In this special keynote event, she reflects on her writing life and the haunting, often humorous world of The Book of Guilt.

Includes audience Q&A and book signing.

ABOUT THE STORY WORLDS FESTIVAL

Story Worlds is a new festival that invites audiences to experience storytelling as a rich, interconnected practice—through the written word, material culture, and oral traditions. Explore the programme, which stretches across Puke Ariki Museum, Libraries, and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre for four days of sessions that celebrate storytelling in all its forms and honour the ways stories help us make sense of ourselves, each other, and the world we share.

At Puke Ariki accessibility is very important to us. We want everyone in the community to be able to enjoy our museum and libraries. A lift goes from the St Aubyn Street car park to the museum entrance. There are three lifts inside Puke Ariki that will get you to all parts of the building.

This event will be held in the Puke Ariki Foyer.

Photo credit: Ebony Lamb

Host or Publisher Cultural Experiences: Puke Ariki Museum and Libraries & Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre