Religion and science will go head to head on hope at this year's Wells Festival of Literature — and tickets are already flying.

Former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams will share the stage with writer Lamorna Ash to explore why a new generation is turning to faith for meaning.

Ash was shocked when friends began converting to Christianity — so she went looking for answers. Her journey took her from evangelical youth festivals to silent Jesuit retreats and remote monastic communities. The result is her new book, Don't Forget We're Here Forever, which Williams hails as "a book of rare quality… movingly good and compassionate."

But if faith isn't your thing, there's another route to optimism.

Science writer and former physicist Sumit Paul‑Choudhury will reveal how to rewire your thinking in his new book The Bright Side. It's not a self-help manual — it's a deep dive into the science behind hope, from Antarctic expeditions to chickens crossing roads. He also shares his own story of losing his wife to cancer, and why optimism still matters.

Both speakers are part of a packed first weekend as the festival opens on 17 October. Several events are already sold out — so act fast if you want in.

More local stories:

• Wells' Bishop's Palace wins national award for top‑class volunteer support
• Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust celebrates outstanding fundraising achievement

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