Keep your diaries clear on Saturday 31 August, as this year I’m heading back to my hometown of Hastings to take part in its literary festival.

Hastings Litfest is taking place from Friday 30 August until Sunday 1 September and is the second year that the family-friendly event will be held. It will see names from the world of writing and publishing come together to share experiences, offer advice and to talk about their work with like-minded people.

I’m joining a panel that will be taking part in a lively investigation into the publishing industry in the 21st century where we will be considering the future of publishing.

The panel is chaired by Danuta Kean, who is a respected publishing industry expert and journalist. She writes for the Guardian and is also books editor of Mslexia the writers magazine for women. She recently wrote a no-holds-barred report on access and opportunity in the publishing industry. The panel will include myself, other authors, publishers and agents. Click here for more details

You can find out more about the festival, what’s on and buy tickets here: Hastings Litfest