Author Luke Kennard wears a blue and white checked collar under a navy jumper and looks out to the left of frame.

Luke Kennard: Black Bag

Join Luke Kennard, University of Birmingham Professor of Creative Writing and 2026 Booker Prize-longlisted author, as he discusses his latest novel, Black Bag.
Author Luke Kennard wears a blue and white checked collar under a navy jumper and looks out to the left of frame.

Inspired by a bizarre real-life social experiment, Black Bag is a darkly funny, unconventional campus novel, exploring masculinity, identity and what it means to be seen.

What to expect

  • Luke will talk about the ideas behind the novel, his approach to writing and his wider work as an award-winning poet and novelist.
  • Black Bag will be available to buy at the event, and Luke Kennard will sign copies after the talk.

The café in the Banking Hall is open throughout the event and serves hot and cold drinks.

Take the opportunity to see Helios, a vast illuminated sculpture by British artist Luke Jerram depicting the surface of the sun using NASA imagery.

Do I need to book?

Yes. This event is free but ticketed. Please register for this event via the link in the top right of this page.

Tickets do not include a copy of the book, but you can purchase the book separately at The Exchange during the event.

Facilities and accessibility

This talk takes place in The Vaults, which is accessible by stairs and lift.

We’re committed to making The Exchange as welcoming and accessible as possible. There’s step-free access and accessible toilets on all floors, plus a Changing Places toilet on the basement level. Guide dogs and assistance animals are always welcome. If you have any questions about access, just drop us an email at engage@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

Location

Address
The Exchange3 Centenary SquareBirminghamB1 2DR