First minister to interview Fife crime writer at book festival

The first minister will interview Fife crime writer Ian Rankin at a book festival next month.

Nicola Sturgeon said the opportunity to question the best-selling author at the Bloody Scotland Crime Writing Festival in Stirling is a “real pleasure”.

Rankin said the experience would be a first for him and praised the SNP leader as one of the world’s best-read politicians.

Ms Sturgeon is a keen reader and a fan of crime fiction, having recently joined the Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers band on stage at the Harrogate Crime Festival to sing backing vocals.

Rankin is the author of the Inspector Rebus novels, which formed the basis of the Rebus TV series.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Ian Rankin is one of Scotland’s most celebrated crime writers, world-renowned for his pageturning thrillers, so it’s a real pleasure for me to interview him at the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival.

“Now in its eighth year Bloody Scotland is attracting writers and audiences from around the world with its excellent programme, and I look forward to attending this year’s festival.”

Rankin said: “I’ve probably done hundreds of events during my time as an author but this is a first for me.

“I’ve no idea what the first minister will ask or where our conversation will lead. I just know she’s one of the best-read politicians currently gracing the world stage, and she definitely knows her crime fiction.”

The interview will take place on the second day of the three-day festival, Saturday September 21, at the Albert Halls in Stirling.

Picture: PA.