The remarkable life and work of acclaimed novelist and poet Muriel Spark will be explored at a special event at The Hive this autumn, featuring a talk from her latest biographer and a panel discussion with literary experts from the University of Worcester.
Tom Mandall, a longstanding admirer of Muriel Spark’s work, will take part in the discussion.
Dame Muriel Spark, one of the most original and influential writers of the twentieth century, is the subject of Like a Cat Loves a Bird by acclaimed biographer James Bailey. He will discuss the book at a free event on Wednesday 14 October, from 6.30pm to 8pm.
During the evening, Bailey will discuss Spark's extraordinary life, literary legacy and the research behind his acclaimed biography. The conversation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring University of Worcester academics and literary specialists, exploring Spark's work, enduring influence and place within modern literature.
Tom Mandall, Academic Liaison Librarian at The Hive and longstanding admirer of Muriel Spark’s work, will take part in the discussion with James Bailey.
“Muriel Spark is best known for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and many others,” he said. “Spark explores a dizzying array of genres and themes without losing the sharp and unsettling with and worldview which continues to fascinate readers. She lived a fascinating life, which is reflected in her body of work.”
“This event is a celebration of one of literatures great original talents,” said Tom. “Spark’s books are just so mystifying in such a wonderfully interesting way, they’re often very short, incredibly immersive, and Spark herself has always been very much a cult figure in the world of literature.”
Tom continued: “This event doesn’t assume any level of knowledge at all, you might have read every one of her books, or you might just be curious to discover a brilliant new author, expand your reading horizons and try something new.”
James Bailey’s book takes its name from a quote Muriel Spark once gave when asked how much she loves her characters, when she responded: “Like a cat loves a bird”.
"What Bailey's book does so well is embrace Spark's uniqueness rather than explain it away," said Tom. "He allows her complexity and eccentricity to shine through. Our event will celebrate this extraordinary author, and I'm looking forward to hearing a range of perspectives on her life and work."
He added: "It will be an unusual and thought-provoking evening, but Muriel Spark was an unusual and thought-provoking writer. It feels only right that an event celebrating her life and work should capture some of that originality."
There is no charge for tickets to this event, but booking is strongly advised as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Book your tickets by visiting the University of Worcester’s news pages, or by following this link:
Like a Cat Loves a Bird: The Muriel Spark Party- Wednesday 14th October 2026, The Hive.