The small boats crisis is seemingly never out of the news. But what is it like to arrive on our shores with nothing and be pushed to the margins of society? And who stands to gain from an asylum system that is intentionally hostile?

Investigative journalist Nicola Kelly (Anywhere but Here) and writer Horatio Clare (We Came by Sea) talk to Anu Anand about the human stories that lie behind the lurid headlines and why this is a subject too often defined by statistics and soundbites. Drawing on deep reporting, vivid storytelling, and first-hand testimonies, they’ll reflect on the realities behind the headlines: the perilous crossings, the forces that drive people from home, and the complex moral, political and human questions that follow.

About Nicola Kelly

Nicola Kelly is an award-winning investigative journalist and writer focused on UK immigration and asylum.

‘Brilliant and hugely timely.’ Caroline Lucas (on Anywhere but Here)

About Horatio Clare

Horatio Clare is a bestselling, award winning and highly acclaimed travel writer, memoirist and journalist.

‘His prose is always brilliant, and by turns funny, furious and heart-piercingly compassionate.’ Robert Macfarlane (on We Came By Sea)

This event will be followed by a book signing, supported by Mr B’s Emporium of Books.