Author stuck in US to miss Book Festival

NOVELIST Hari Kunzru has been barred from attending the Edinburgh International Book Festival after US immigration officials refused to allow him leave the country.

More than 150 fans were expected to attend a joint talk by the British Indian author and fellow novelist Yiyun Li at Peppers Theatre, Charlotte Square, on Saturday.

Kunzru, who has attended the festival several times in the past, was refused travel because his green card application was still being processed. The event will still proceed but as a solo show with Yijun Li.

After announcing the news on micro-blogging website Twitter, Kunzru apologised for his non-appearance.

“Very sorry not to be participating in Edinburgh World Writers’ Conference, hope to follow it online,” he tweeted.

Fan Laura Waddell replied: “Sad to hear @harikunzru can’t make it to @edbookfest because of immigration status issues, but glad I read more of him recently anyway.”

A spokesperson for Edinburgh Book Festival said: “There had been a fair interest in this event. We are very disappointed that he is unable to join us this year as he has been a regular attendee in recent years.”

Kunzru previously attended the festival in 2011, 2007, 2006 and 2004.