Hay Festival, one of the biggest literary events in the world, is returning in full swing after being postponed due to the pandemic. The 36th edition of the festival, set to take place from May 25 – June 4, 2023. One of the highlights of this year’s festival will be Stormzy’s celebration of five years of #Merky Books, his publishing imprint in collaboration with Penguin Random House.

The British rapper and singer, who is known for his chart-topping hits and socially conscious lyrics, will host a special event during the festival to mark this significant milestone. Stormzy’s love for literature began at an early age, and he has been an avid reader ever since. His passion for books led him to launch #Merky Books in 2018, with the aim of publishing stories from underrepresented communities and encouraging young people to read and write. The imprint has since published several critically acclaimed works, including Stormzy’s own autobiography, Rise Up: The #Merky Story So Far.

The festival will also host conversations on important topics such as grief and emotional intelligence. Richard E Grant will discuss his book, A Pocketful of Happiness, while Tracey Emin will share insights into her life and work. TV star Susie Dent will discuss her book, An Emotional Dictionary, offering practical advice on understanding and managing emotions.

Hay Festival is the perfect platform for celebrating literature, culture, and ideas. The festival’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity is evident in its lineup, which features a range of voices and perspectives. The Hay Festival promises to be an exciting and inspiring event, offering a diverse range of experiences and perspectives for audiences to engage with. With Stormzy leading the charge, #Merky Books is sure to be a highlight of the festival, and a celebration of the power of words to connect and inspire.