01/06/2026
Author & Publisher Feature: Chirag Patel
Join us at the Bathurst Bookfair 2026 to meet multi-faceted author, publisher, and audiobook narrator Chirag Patel. With over ten years of publishing experience, Chirag is the managing editor of Brimin & Blainn. Writing and narrating under the pen name Charles Featherstone, his diverse portfolio spans hard historical fiction, Daoist texts, punk retrospectives, gardening, and Stoic classics.
Where to Find Him: The Stables
Book Sales & Signing: Saturday (until 2:00 PM) & Sunday (All Day). Stop by his table to browse and purchase copies of his featured titles.
Presentation Schedule:
Grahamstown's Greatest Eccentric
Saturday, 9:30 AM
Featured Book: Emperor Norton I: The True Story of the 1820 Settler who Became Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico (1860-1880)
Discover the chaotic history of the early settler period through the life of Joshua Norton. Raised amid the Frontier wars, Norton eventually moved to America and became a massive tabloid celebrity, proclaiming himself Emperor of the United States. This talk explores the real-world environment that forged history’s most eccentric character.
The Dirty Tricks That Win Arguments
Sunday, 10:00 AM
Featured Book: A Weaponised Field Guide to Schopenhauer's Art of Being Right
Arthur Schopenhauer was history’s most famous pessimist. He detailed 37 dirty tricks people use to win arguments even when they know they are wrong. This session explores "eristic debate" (from standard ad hominem attacks to subtle false syllogisms) and teaches you how to take back control of any argument.
The Book Everyone Needs, Sooner or Later
Sunday, 12:00 PM
Featured Book: Dying Ways by Dale Heim (co-authored with Chirag Patel)
A compassionate and vital look at the human reality of final journeys. At 76, Dale Heim has partnered with Chirag to share stories from her career, aiming to break the silence surrounding death and provide practical ways to open difficult family discussions. Both authors will be present to discuss the journey of writing this essential book.
Don't miss the chance to catch these distinct talks, meet the author, and browse these titles at The Stables. See you there!