The Hay 30 – Janina RAMIREZ

David Olusoga takes readers on a journey through Black British history, exploring the forgotten histories of Black people in Britain from Roman times right through to the present day. His children’s book Black and British: An Illustrated History is the essential introduction to understanding this issue. He talks to art historian and presenter Dr Janina Ramirez.

Julian of Norwich was the subject of medievalist and TV historian Janina Ramirez’s latest BBC 4 documentary (July 2016): In Search of the Lost Manuscript: Julian of Norwich. Now the focus of her latest book, Janina takes us further into the history of the Mother of English literature, discussing what we know about Julian and why she deserves to be seen as the female Chaucer or Thomas More.  

Ramirez reappraises medieval history to reveal why women were struck from historical narrative and restores them to their rightful positions as the power-players who shaped our world. An Oxford lecturer, BBC broadcaster, researcher and author, she has presented and written BBC history documentaries and series on TV and radio, and writes for both children and adults. Femina is published on 21 July 2022: the first 40 people to buy a ticket to the event will receive an advance proof copy! Kavita Puri is an award-winning journalist, executive producer and broadcaster for the BBC. She is also the author of the critically acclaimed book Partition Voices: Untold British Stories.

Julian of Norwich was the subject of medievalist and TV historian Janina Ramirez’s latest BBC Four documentary: In Search of the Lost Manuscript, Julian of Norwich. Drawing on the material in her latest book, Ramirez takes us further into the history of the Mother of English Literature, discussing what we know about Julian and why she deserves to be seen as a writer on an equal footing with Chaucer or Thomas More. Chaired by Peter Florence.

Be immersed in a world of riddles, runes and revenge with the Viking expert and children’s author who will introduce you to the fearless shield maiden Alva, reveal fascinating facts about the Vikings, and will need your help to solve a mysterious crime in the fjords of Kilsgard.

Join author and historian Dr Janina Ramirez to discover the incredible goddesses, witches, saints, spirits and guides that have shaped our belief systems. There are fearsome warriors, mystical protectors and wise leaders – and each one can inspire you. From Medusa to Mami Wata, Brigid to Lakshmi, tales of powerful female figures have been told since the beginning of time – and it’s time to celebrate them.