Exeter’s role as a UNESCO City of Literature has inspired a new book written by students from the city’s university.
UNESCO Cities of Literature – published on 6 March, World Book Day – was written by University of Exeter MA Publishing students.
The collection spotlights the different ways the UNESCO network – which comprises fifty-three cities in thirty-nine countries – sustains authors and readers and stimulates global publishing industries.
Exeter was awarded City of Literature status in 2019 and the designation has had a profound effect on the city.
Showcasing how literature shapes diverse communities and forges intercultural collaboration, UNESCO Cities of Literature examines what it means to cross cultural borders and share in a mutual love of words.
UNESCO Cities of Literature explores the literary landscape connected to the Creative Cities network. Alongside articles, interviews and reviews written by the 2024/25 MA Publishing cohort at the University of Exeter, the collection features four pieces of short fiction, specially commissioned by Davina Quinlivan, by authors connected to four UNESCO Cities of Literature – Edinburgh, Exeter, Lviv and Granada.
Reviewing the publication, Professor Christopher Morash from Trinity College Dublin, writes that ‘For anyone who has ever wondered what the UNESCO City of Literature designation means, in all of its marvellous diversity, this beautifully-produced book is your answer.’
Exeter UNESCO City of Literature’s Executive Director, Anna Cohn Orchard said: “In these essays, interviews, and narratives, you’ll experience a global conversation unfolding, proof that storytelling knows no borders and that the written word remains one of humanity’s most enduring acts of survival and hope.”
The City of Literature network is a diverse, transnational collective, and Exeter’s inclusion creates opportunities for collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. Within the city itself, the designation has enabled Exeter to pursue new projects and foster a high level of literary interest within the local community.
The book will be launched by the MA Publishing cohort at 4.30pm on 25 March at Exeter Phoenix. For those unable to attend the physical launch, an online launch will also at 11.30am on 19 March.
Tickets for the online launch are available HERE.
Tickets for the physical launch are available HERE.
The publication is available to download for free HERE. Physical copies will be available for purchase at the in-person launch event and at Bookbag.
For more information, or to schedule an interview with the editors or authors, please contact: publishing@exeter.ac.uk.
Visit the University’s MA Publishing website: https://sites.exeter.ac.uk/mapublishing/
Instagram: @uoepublishing
LinkedIn: MA Publishing Exeter
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