Books: Above, enthusiasts at last year’s festival.
CLUNES will host the first in a series of author talks tomorrow, as preparations ramp up for this year’s Booktown Festival.
Journalist and speechwriter James Button will appear at the Clunes Sunday Selection event to discuss Speechless: A Year in my Father’s Business.
It will take place at the Clunes Union Bank Art Centre at 3pm and admission will be free.
The book uncovers Mr Button’s journey from reporting to politics and working as a speechwriter for ex-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. He relates his story with that of his Ballarat-born father John Button, a minister in the Hawke and Keating governments.
“I think the book honours my dad, his political work and him as a man. In a way I feel closer to him for having written the book, by writing about someone you keep them alive,” he said.
As well as uncovering more about his father, a Labor stalwart, Mr Button writes of his experiences moving from news into the world of politics.
“I think Kevin Rudd failed to tell a story about what he was doing as Prime Minister. ,” he said.
“The Gillard government hasn’t been able to tell a good story either.”
The Sunday Selection talks will be held on the first and third Sunday of each month throughout the year. Other authors to feature include Robin de Crespigny (The People Smuggler).
Clunes is a member of the International Organisation of Booktowns. It will host the 2013 Booktown Festival in May.
tom.cowie@fairfaxmedia.com.au