Journalist to discuss new John Hume book at special event in Derry

The author of a new book on John Hume will be at special event at the Waterside Theatre this Sunday. 

Stephen Walker, who has just written 'John Hume: The Persuader', will be in conversation with BBC NI Political Editor Enda McClafferty on Sunday, November 19 at 3pm.

The two journalists will discuss the new biography which combines over 100 interviews with many of Hume’s family, friends, and political rivals. 

It presents a revealing portrait of the man who was an MP, MEP and Nobel Laureate and includes unpublished interviews with Hume himself. 

The book took Walker three years to write and during that time he visited Derry regularly as part of his research and spoke to many of Hume’s friends and contemporaries. 

The book has been described by the Irish Times as "the definitive biography of John Hume" and RTE presenter David McCullagh said the biography was superb and "does full justice to a towering figure". Journalist Sam McBride of the Belfast Telegraph said Walker’s book was "scrupulously fair, deeply researched and insightful".  

Speaking to Derry Now, Stephen Walker said: “It is very exciting to be at the Waterside Theatre this weekend. I am really looking forward to seeing so many people who have memories of John Hume and stories about him and his wife Pat. 

"John and Pat Hume are part of the fabric of the city and their story is truly remarkable. I am thrilled at being able to come to the city and talk about their lives and this book." 

He added: “The event on Sunday afternoon will be presented brilliantly by Enda McClafferty - a familiar face to many television viewers and radio listeners. 

"I am really looking forward to a great afternoon of conversation and questions. So many people in the city helped me with this book and I look forward to telling new stories about John Hume’s life and legacy."

Walker’s book which is published by GIll Books was launched last month at the Great Hall at Magee. It has received much acclaim in the press and has been featured on RTE, BBC and UTV in recent weeks. It has become a best seller and is one of the most sought after books in bookshops across Derry. 

Stephen Walker is the author of four books. An award winning journalist, he covered the politics of Northern Ireland for over 30 years. He is a former BBC Northern Ireland Political Correspondent and worked as an investigative reporter for the Spotlight programme.

Enda McClafferty is the Political Editor for BBC Northern Ireland and regularly appears on BBC Newsline and Radio Ulster. He is a former reporter and presenter with BBC Radio Foyle and he worked as a journalist with the Belfast Telegraph. 

Tickets from thelittleboxoffice.com or from Stephenwalker.uk.