Melbourne Writers Festival has revealed the first glimpse of its 2026 program, confirming internationally acclaimed author R. F. Kuang will travel to Melbourne this May for a special event with readers.
The festival will run from 7 to 10 May, bringing together leading Australian and international writers for four days of talks, discussions and literary events across the city.
Kuang will appear at a featured in conversation event at Melbourne Town Hall on Friday 8 May. Speaking with author Shelley Parker-Chan, Rebecca will reflect on her rapid rise in the literary world, the role of storytelling in a time of cultural reckoning and the enduring appeal of speculative fiction.
MWF Festival Director Veronica Sullivan said the author’s appearance marks a major moment for the festival as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.
“Rebecca (R.F.) Kuang is without a doubt one of the world’s most exciting contemporary novelists. With each new book, she pushes the boundaries of genre and imagination in breathtaking new ways,” she said.
“We are delighted to have Rebecca join us at this year’s 40th anniversary edition of Melbourne Writers Festival to discuss Katabasis, and know her many readers in Melbourne will warmly welcome her to our City of Literature in May!”
Kuang has quickly become one of the most influential voices in contemporary fiction. She is best known for The Poppy War trilogy, which gained a large international following, along with the novels Babel and Yellowface.
Her latest book, Katabasis, continues her exploration of power, culture and storytelling while drawing on myth and the idea of the underworld.
Across her work, Kuang is known for tackling themes such as colonialism, translation, authorship and cultural identity. Her writing often blends fantasy, literary fiction and satire, helping reshape the modern genre landscape and building a devoted global readership.
Organisers say the author’s appearance is expected to attract readers from across genres, from epic fantasy fans to those interested in literary and cultural criticism.
The announcement offers an early preview of the 2026 festival, with the full Melbourne Writers Festival program set to be revealed on Thursday 19 March.
Tickets for R.F. Kuang’s Melbourne Town Hall event are on sale now via mwf.com.au.
