10 September 2009

Booker Prize winner leads tributes to Burns

Booker Prize-winning author DBC Pierre is among the contributors to a new book celebrating the life of Robert Burns, published by Dundee University Press, marking the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland’s national poet.

‘For A' That, A Celebration Of Burns’ features an array of exclusive offerings from the likes of the Vernon God Little author, whose satirical essay explores “the suppression and undervaluation in Scotland of Robert Burns due to historical omission and manipulation’.

Other contributions include those from award-winning novelist Janice Galloway (an essay entitled ‘Singing for Suppers’), Kirsty Gunn, Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Dundee (a short story ‘Memorial’ inspired by Burns), and renowned New Zealand poet Bill Manhire (a poem entitled ‘The Best Burns Statue’).

Extracts from Burns work appear throughout the book, which was conceived and edited by Professor Gunn and Anna Day, director of Literary Dundee.

‘For A' That’ will be launched at a glittering ceremony at Dundee Rep on Tuesday, September 29th. The event will be marked by readings from contributors including Professor Gunn and Janice Galloway.

Music will be provided by singer-songwriter Ed Harcourt, and Burns recital will also take place at the event. Tickets, costing £5, are available by calling the Rep box office on 01382 223530.

Joan Concannon, Director of External Relations at the University, said the book was a fitting way to mark the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland's national poet.

"Robert Burns is a national icon, and this book reflects upon his life, work and legacy through a thought-provoking selection of essays, short stories and poems.

"For A' That also highlights the exceptional creative writing talent here, and the growing scope of publications produced by Dundee University Press."

"The launch event is a must-attend for all fans of Burns."

The book itself will be available to buy in stores and from online retailer Amazon from September 29th onwards, although copies can be ordered now at www.dup.dundee.ac.uk now. Copies cost £6.99 each.

The book features original artwork by Brigid Collins, an artist and illustrator who lectures at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, part of the University, and was designed by Tim Bremner

An exhibition of the artwork used in the book will precede the launch event and takes place at the Queen Mother Building between 5.15pm-6.30pm.

Gavin Wallace, Head of Literature at the Scottish Arts Council, introduces ‘For A’ That’, while University Vice-Principal and eminent historian Professor Christopher Whatley examines the little-discussed links between Burns and Dundee.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07854 953277