About Max Porter presents Shy

“Max Porter has a way of writing unlike anyone else. I loved Shy. I finished it elated and tearful, joyful and terrified, changed by the journey. It moved and surprised me and that is what I look for in my favourite artists.” – PJ Harvey

Meet Shy, a teenage boy in trouble, trying to figure out his life. Through his inimitable style, cult author Max Porter brings Shy to life, allowing us to enter his head and see what lies beneath.

In a very special event, Max will perform a dramatic abridged reading from his new novel Shy with a live electronic score by musician Roly Porter. This will be followed by a conversation about his work.

Max is the author of four bestselling novels including Grief is the Thing with Feathers, which won several prizes and was adapted for the stage in a critically acclaimed solo performance by Cillian Murphy, and Lanny, which was longlisted for the Booker Prize.

Access and Content Warnings

Access

If you have any access needs you want to discuss with us, please call the box office Tuesday to Friday between 12pm – 10pm on 0161 274 0600.

Alternatively, you can email the box office on boxoffice@contactmcr.com, or get in touch via direct message on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram (@contactmcr on all three platforms).

Learn more about access at Contact here.

Content Warnings

The novel Shy depicts a disturbed young teenager. Max's monologues may touch on drugs, mental health, depression, paranoia, family, sex and panic.

Credits and Partners

Presented by Manchester Literature Festival in partnership with Contact, Centre for New Writing and Creative Manchester.

About Manchester Literature Festival

Manchester Literature Festival is a celebration of imagination, ideas, stories, and voices from around the world. It is part of Manchester’s rich cultural tapestry and is committed to bringing together the most exciting storytellers, poets, and thinkers for everyone to enjoy.

Learn more about Manchester Literature Festival here.