Meet the author: 5 minutes with Jessica Moor

The Bury St. Edmunds Literature Festival is a haven for book enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to meet and interact with authors who have shaped the literary landscape. This year, the festival is thrilled to host Jessica Moor, a brilliant writer whose journey and work have captivated many. Jessica will be appearing alongside Women’s Prize shortlisted author Kirsty Capes in our Ascending Stars Panel, where these two excellent authors will be in conversation with local author Kate Sawyer at 6pm on Sunday 13th October 2024 at the Unitarian Meeting House, Bury St Edmunds.

Jessica Moor: A Literary Journey

Jessica Moor's fascination with writing began at an early age. Inspired by literary giants like Kazuo Ishiguro, Kate Atkinson, JM Coetzee, and Doris Lessing, she found herself constantly crafting stories. "I’ve never not been writing! Since I could read, I’ve written stories of my own," Jessica shares.

New Fiction

Her latest book, "Hold Back The Night," is a testament to her literary prowess. March 2020. Annie is alone in her house as the world shuts down, only the ghosts of her memories for company. But then she receives a phone call which plunges her deeper into the past.1959. Annie and Rita are student nurses at Fairlie Hall mental hospital. Working long, gruelling hours, they soon learn that the only way to appease their terrifying matron is to follow the rules unthinkingly. But what is happening in the hospital's hidden side wards? And at what point does following the rules turn into complicity - and betrayal?1983. Annie is reeling from the loss of her husband and struggling to face raising her daughter alone. Following a chance encounter, she offers a sick young man a bed for the night, a good deed that soon leads to another. Before long, she finds herself entering a new life of service - her home a haven for those who are cruelly shunned. But can we ever really atone? This thematic exploration of atonement and the haunting nature of past deeds is both thought-provoking and deeply resonant.

Themes and Inspirations

At this year's festival, Jessica is eager to delve into the research and thought processes behind "Hold Back The Night." She looks forward to engaging with the audience, discussing the concept of atonement, and contemplating how we deal with the challenging events in our past.

Jessica's reading list is also a reflection of her eclectic taste and insatiable curiosity. She is currently immersed in "Skippy Dies" by Paul Murray, having recently enjoyed Murray's "The Bee Sting." Other books on her radar include "Wellness" by Nathan Hill and "James" by Percival Everett.

A Fun Fact About Jessica

Beyond her literary achievements, Jessica's life is peppered with interesting experiences. Did you know she once lived in Amsterdam? During her time there, she worked as a Deliveroo rider, which endowed her with an encyclopedic knowledge of the city's geography.

Join the Conversation

Jessica Moor's session with Kirsty Capes and Kate Sawyer at the Bury St. Edmunds Literature Festival promises to be enlightening and engaging. Don't miss out on this opportunity to hear from her and other incredible authors.

Book your tickets now at www.burylitfest.co.uk and be part of this literary celebration.