Literary Lunch – Clare Mulley

Introducing Our Next Literary Lunch with Clare Mulley!

We are thrilled to announce our upcoming Literary Lunch event featuring the award-winning biographer and historian, Clare Mulley! Join us on Tuesday, 25th February 2025, from 12:15 pm to 2:15 pm, at The Bull Inn, Royston.

Clare will be in conversation with our host, Sarah Harrison, about her latest book, Agent Zo, a captivating biography of Elżbieta Zawacka, a WWII resistance fighter and the only female emissary of the Polish Home Army. This promises to be an inspiring and engaging event, perfect for history enthusiasts and book lovers alike.

Clare Mulley

Clare Mulley is a distinguished British author and historian with a rich background in English Literature and History, having studied at the University of Oxford. Her academic journey ignited her passion for uncovering the often-overlooked stories of women throughout history, particularly those who made significant contributions during pivotal moments.

Before becoming a full-time writer, Clare worked in publishing and contributed to various media outlets, where she developed her unique voice and honed her skills in storytelling. She is known for her meticulous research and ability to weave historical facts into compelling narratives. Her notable works include “The Spy Who Loved: The Secrets and Lives of One of Britain’s Most Acclaimed Women Spies,” highlighting the extraordinary life of Violette Szabo, a British agent during World War II.

Clare’s commitment to shedding light on the experiences of women in history has earned her acclaim and recognition in literary and historical circles. She frequently speaks at events and engages with audiences, bringing her characters and their stories to life. Through her writing, Clare not only educates readers about the past but also inspires them to appreciate the resilience and impact of women throughout history.

Books

Clare’s works shine a light on extraordinary women who shaped history, such as:

The Woman Who Saved the Children – a biography of Eglantyne Jebb, the founder of Save the Children, which won the Daily Mail Biographers’ Club Prize.

The Spy Who Loved – detailing the life of Krystyna Skarbek, a Polish-born British agent, who became one of Britain’s most effective special agents during World War II.

The Women Who Flew for Hitler – a gripping account of Nazi Germany’s only female test pilots, Hanna Reitsch, who sought to save Hitler, and Melitta von Stauffenberg, who aimed to kill him.

Book Synopsis

The focus of this lunch will be on Clare’s latest book, “Agent Zo“. Here Clare tells the remarkable story of Elżbieta Zawacka, known as ‘Zo,’ the only female emissary of the Polish Home Army during World War II. As a member of the elite Special Forces, the ‘Silent Unseen,’ she made history in 1943 by becoming the first woman to parachute into Nazi-occupied Poland.

In Poland, Zo played a crucial role in the Warsaw Uprising, facing constant danger while being hunted by the Gestapo. Her bravery inspired fellow resistance fighters, yet after the war, she was imprisoned by the Soviet-backed communist regime, which sought to suppress her incredible contributions for over four decades.

Clare Mulley’s biography combines new archival research and exclusive interviews, reviving Zo’s legacy and honouring her courage. Agent Zo not only tells the tale of a forgotten heroine but also highlights the broader struggles of those who fought for freedom against tyranny.

Why Clare Mulley is the Perfect Guest for Home-Start

Clare Mulley is the perfect guest for Home-Start’s Literary Lunch, not only due to her engaging storytelling and insightful perspectives but also because of her previous involvement with our charity. In 2020, Clare was the featured author at one of our successful Literary Lunches in Royston, where she captivated the audience with her compelling narrative and passion for history.

Clare’s ability to connect with readers makes her an ideal guest for our upcoming event. Her focus on women’s contributions aligns perfectly with Home-Start’s mission to support families and empower communities. Inviting her will spark meaningful conversations about resilience and support, enriching the experience for everyone involved.

Purchase your tickets here