2012 marks the 50th anniversary of Anthony Burgess’ most famous novel, A Clockwork Orange. An underground hit on publication, A Clockwork Orange went on to reach a mass audience via Stanley Kubrick’s 1971 film. Its powerful themes, such as the problem of free will, the relationship of the individual to the state, and the possibility or otherwise of redemption, remain entirely contemporary; and its linguistic innovation and completely distinctive style continue to have a huge influence on popular culture. We are delighted to welcome historian and broadcaster Dominic Sandbrook for an exploration of A Clockwork Orange and the culture of the 1960s and 1970s, and the launch of A Clockwork Orange: The Restored Text, edited by Andrew Biswell. Dominic Sandbrook is the acclaimed author of the books Never Had It So Good, White Heat and State of Emergency, which, along with his new book Seasons in the Sun, has recently been adapted for television. £8/£6. Book on 0843 208 0500 or via Quay Tickets. A Manchester Literature Festival and International Anthony Burgess Foundation event.