Fermented foods, late love and an elephant trek are just some of the intriguing range of topics that mark the first weekend of Wells Festival of Literature in October.

Among the speakers are Professor Tim Spector on a mission to bring the art of fermenting into our lives and kitchens with a new book Ferment that is packed with recipes and tips.

The gut health expert combines the latest science with one of the most ancient techniques for preserving food and drink in ways that will benefit our health, immunity and daily mood.

Investigating another ancient path is journalist and travel writer Sophy Roberts who tells the tale of four 19th century elephants on a trek through Africa in her latest historical adventure A Training School for Elephants.

It's a bizarre story of greed, folly and colourful characters – especially the elephants – and a terrific follow-up for fans of her acclaimed earlier work The Lost Pianos of Siberia.

And for those enamoured of an emotional adventure, award-winning author Howard Jacobson is set to entertain the festival's Book Group audience with a late life romantic romp in his new novel What Will Survive of Us.

Booking is not yet open for these speakers or the many more to come, but sign up as a Friend of the festival and you will receive an invitation to a special event in July. Friends also get a discount on all festival tickets.

For more information visit www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk. Wells Festival of Literature runs from 17 to 25 October.

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