The Manchester Writing School at MMU and the International Anthony Burgess Foundation are delighted to welcome Maggie Gee to the Engine House. Maggie has written 12 novels, including The White Family (shortlisted for the Orange and the International Impac prizes), The Ice People, My Cleaner and My Driver (2009), an acclaimed writer’s memoir, My Animal Life, and a collection of stories, The Blue. She is Vice-President of the UK’s Royal Society of Literature, Professor of Creative Writing at Bath Spa University and there has been an international conference about her work at St Andrew’s University. Her latest novel, Virginia Woolf in Manhattan, is a comedy that brings the late author back to life in the 21st century. Her writing has been described by Doris Lessing as, “‘worldly, witty, enjoyable, impressive”. Maggie will be reading from her work, answering questions from the audience, and in conversation with MMU’s Gregory Norminton. The evening will open with short readings of original work by two MMU MA Creative Writing students. Drinks will be available to purchase from the bar, and there’ll be a special Blackwell’s bookstall and signing after the event. Contact events@anthonyburgess.org to reserve seats. Supported by the MMU Institute of Humanities and Social Science Research and Macdonald Hotels and Resorts.