Book Week Scotland 2025 arrives 17 – 23 November.
During a week-long celebration of books and reading, we will have a series of events for you to get involved with and join in on the fun.
Book Week Scotland Events
Feeding the Hunger of the Soul: The Monklands and The Leningrad Album
Monday 17 November, 2pm | Coatbridge Library
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01698 332626
In 1941, not long after the siege of Leningrad had commenced, the “Russia Today Society” in Airdrie agreed to collect, and collate in an album, women’s signatures from Airdrie and Coatbridge to send to the women of Leningrad to convey feelings of admiration and support. This small act of solidarity had a tremendous effect on the people of Leningrad and inspired a reciprocal album to be produced and sent to Scotland. Find out about history of the two albums and reflect on what their creation says about the power of the freedom of imagination.
A special Our Freedom: Then & Now event during Book Week Scotland.
Doug Johnstone
Monday 17 November, 7pm | Motherwell Library
Free – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01698 332626
Join us for a thrilling evening at Motherwell Library with bestselling author Doug Johnstone as part of Book Week Scotland! Known for his gripping Tartan Noir novels and razor-sharp storytelling, Doug will delve into his writing journey, share insights into his latest novel, The Transcendent Tide, and discuss the dark heart of Scottish crime fiction.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his books, this is a rare chance to meet one of Scotland’s most compelling contemporary voices in person. Expect lively conversation, audience Q&A, and the opportunity to get your books signed.
Don’t miss this unforgettable night of crime, creativity, and conversation!
Karen Campbell
Tuesday 18 November, 7pm | Wishaw Library
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01698 524960
Celebrate Book Week Scotland with an unforgettable evening in the company of acclaimed Scottish author Karen Campbell, at Wishaw Library on Monday 18 November at 7pm.
Karen will talk about her latest novel, This Bright Life, share insights into her writing process, explore the themes behind her novels, and discuss her journey from police officer to award-winning novelist.
Whether you’re a fan of contemporary fiction, crime thrillers, or simply love a good story, this event promises to be engaging, inspiring, and full of literary charm.
Sara Sheridan
Tuesday 18 November, 7pm | Coatbridge Library
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01698 332626
Join bestselling author Sara Sheridan at Coatbridge Library on Monday 18 November at 7pm for a captivating evening of stories, history, and literary inspiration as part of Book Week Scotland.
250 years after the birth of Jane Austen, Sara will talk about her own personal relationship with and reaction to Austen’s legacy, and how Jane Austen has informed her own journey as a writer and creator.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fiction lover, or simply curious about the creative journey behind the books, this is a chance to connect with one of Scotland’s most dynamic literary voices.
Please note – this event will be supported with a BSL Interpreter present.
Eleanor Gibson
Wednesday 19 November, 2pm | Motherwell Library
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01698 332626
‘Mindfulness – A Different Platform’ is an inspirational new book which encourages us to live our lives to our full potential based on mindfulness, compassion and gratitude.
Author Eleanor Gibson will be visiting Motherwell Library to share her mindfulness journey. She will also guide a brief introductory practice to mindfulness meditation.
Chris McQueer
Thursday 20 November, 7pm | Bellshill Cultural Centre
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01698 524960
Get ready for a night of sharp wit and unforgettable storytelling as Chris McQueer takes the stage at Bellshill Cultural Centre on Wednesday 20 November at 7pm, as part of Book Week Scotland.
Known for his dark humour and surreal tales that capture the quirks of Scottish life, Chris will discuss his debut novel Hermit, share behind-the-scenes stories, and talk about his journey from short stories to cult acclaim.
Expect laughs, insight, and a few surprises from one of Scotland’s most original literary voices.
Rachelle Atalla
Saturday 22 November, 2pm | Cumbernauld Library
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01236 632702
Join acclaimed author Rachelle Atalla at Cumbernauld Library on Friday 22 November at 2pm for an inspiring afternoon of storytelling, conversation, and literary insight as part of Book Week Scotland.
Known for her gripping novels The Salt Flats and Thirsty Animals, Rachelle will delve into her writing journey, share behind-the-scenes glimpses into her creative process, and discuss the stories that shape her work.
Whether you’re a devoted reader, an aspiring writer, or simply curious about the world of contemporary fiction, this is a unique opportunity to connect with one of Scotland’s most compelling literary voices.
Andrew Meehan
Tuesday 25 November, 2pm | Airdrie Library
FREE – Ticket Required | Book online here or call 01236 758070
Suffering Book Week Scotland withdrawal symptoms? Don’t worry – here comes Book Week Scotland Extra as New Tricks meets Book Week Scotland!
Join celebrated author Andrew Meehan at Airdrie Library on Tuesday 25 November at 2pm for an afternoon of literary exploration.
Known for his inventive storytelling and fresh takes on classic stories, Andrew will discuss his writing journey, share insights into his latest novel Best Friends, and reflect on the creative process behind his work.
Social Media
As well as these fantastic events, we will also have plenty of social media posts supporting Book Week Scotland as well. Follow all of our accounts to watch out for these and interact with them.
