Writers
Events for 12. April 2026
Mary Beckett: A Belfast Woman at Look North! Festival at the Linen Hall Library
This event took place on the 25th February 2026. A video recording is now available to view on YouTube. Born in 1926, Mary Beckett is regarded as one of Belfast's finest writers. Widely acclaimed for her novels and short stories, especially A Belfast Woman, A Literary Woman and Give Them Stones, her work did much to capture and explore the lives and experiences of women, especially working-class women. To mark the centenary of her birth, The Linen Hall Library in partnership with Look North!, brings together two acclaimed Belfast writers, Anne Devlin and Wendy Erskine, to talk about Beckett’s work and her enduring legacy. This session will be chaired by award-winning novelist and short story writer, Bernie McGill. Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. This event will be hosted by The Linen Hall Library, Belfast on 25th February at 1pm. Tickets £5. Booking details here.
Short Story Writing Weekend with Bernie McGill at YARN, Ballycastle
When & Where 11th April 2026, 10 am – 4 pm 12th April 2026, 10 am - 2 pm YARN Ballycastle, 24-26 Ann St, Ballycastle, BT54 6AD, UK About Have you always wanted to try writing a short story? Do you already have an idea? Do you write in other genres and are interested in the form? Whether you’re a first-timer looking for guidance and inspiration or a seasoned writer seeking a fresh challenge, this Short Story Writing Weekend is for you. Join award-winning short story writer Bernie McGill for an enjoyable weekend of participative writing that will help to get your writing on track. Please bring your preferred writing materials (pen/pencil, notebook/laptop, etc.) If you’re already working on a short story, feel free to bring a copy for workshopping. Participants will be encouraged to share their work only if they are comfortable doing so. Saturday 11th April: 10 am – 4 pm What is a short story? How to get started with focus on structure, character and setting. Participants will be offered prompts and exercises to help develop their work. There will be a lunch break, with lunch provided on the day. Tea/coffee & snacks will also be provided. Sunday […]