By Fernanda de Madariaga, Erin Taylor and Sofia Martinez Alvarez
Spring is just around the corner, which means a great opportunity to delve into new habits or refresh old ones. This week, we bring to you evenings with authors, book clubs and even an exciting mystery book launch!
An Evening with Kate Morgan
Thursday 28 March, 6:30 p.m.
Waterstones, Nuneaton
Waterstones are hosting an interview and book signing with trained solicitor and author, Kate Morgan. History enthusiasts may know of Morgan for her previous publication, Murder: A Biography. Employing her knowledge of the law as a solicitor, Morgan’s new book, The Walnut Tree: Women, Violence and the Law: A Hidden History, investigates legal histories surrounding the safeguarding of women from violence. However, potential readers of Morgan’s work don’t need to harbour an interest in history. The Walnut Tree, published on 29 February this year, could appeal to anyone with an interest in the law and women’s rights since her writing also discusses the landscape of present-day laws and how they came to be. Tickets for this interview and book signing are free. To find out more about Morgan’s book and attend the event click here.
Piccadilly YA Book Club
Friday 29 March, 6:00 p.m.
Waterstones Piccadilly, London
Join an evening at Waterstones for the discussion of You Could Be So Pretty by Holly Bourne. In this dystopian novel, girls have a choice among two paths: the first is to follow society norms and be a Pretty, or two is to fight against it and be an Objectionable. Our main characters Belle and Joni, belong to these groups respectively, yet what would happen if they were to join forces to break down the system? This book captures a reality not too far off from our own, making it more compelling and perhaps even cautionary. For the eager, it leaves plenty to discuss. For more information or tickets for the event, click here.
Book Launch: Emma, Disappeared by Andrew Hughes
Thursday 4 April, 6:00 p.m.–7:45 p.m.
Waterstones, Dublin – Hodges Figgis
Once again, Waterstones is there for the release of a mystery book, meaning it’s worth the read and well worth attending its launch! Emma, Disappeared by Andrew Hughes narrates the story of a brilliant young girl who is last seen in the early hours of Dublin CCTV footage. Her disappearance sparks national commotion, even more so when her boyfriend is nowhere to be found either. Meanwhile, James Lyster follows the case plainly out of interest. When a comment he makes about it on social media goes viral, he is suddenly drawn into a group of university students, actively investigating the case themselves. As a body is found, James’ truth is questioned too. Be sure to attend this evening of coming together and sharing excitement for this soon-to-be hit! For more information or tickets for the event, click here.
Waterstones Exeter YA Book Group
Thursday 4 April, 5:30 p.m.
Waterstones Exeter – Roman Gate
Holly Black’s The Cruel Prince is April’s book of the month for the Waterstones Exeter YA Book Group. Dive into this hugely popular, twisty, political YA fantasy with fellow book lovers and discuss all things related to this number one New York Times bestseller and Inky Award-winning trilogy. No need to book in advance, just turn up to the Waterstones Cafe and come prepared to talk about the enchanting world of the Folk of the Air series, whether you’re a first-time reader or long-time lover of The Cruel Prince.
Blind Date with a Book
Saturday 6 April, 11:00 a.m.
SoLo Craft Fair, Brixton
Every Saturday, SoLo Craft Fair in Brixton offers a “Blind Date with a Book”. The environmentally friendly idea behind the initiative is to save books from landfill. Second-hand books will be wrapped in paper so their titles remain a secret, allowing visitors to select a book based on a genre or personality, such as “romance”, “classic” or “dangerous.” The books are free, and visitors are invited to bring along any unwanted books from home, too. This event does not require reservation, but books are given away on a first come first serve basis, so it is best to arrive early! To find out more, click here.
SYP Scotland Conference 2024
Saturday 6 April
C7 Conference Centre, Glasgow
The Society of Young Publishers Scotland is hosting their Annual Spring Conference this year on the theme of Bridging Voices. Expect a busy day of panels for current and aspiring publishers, touching on all areas of the publishing industry. For this year’s theme, SYP Scotland is inviting the entire arts community to join in the day’s events, including a careers clinic, an inspiring keynote and a post-conference reception for all attendees. Bookish freebies and lunch are included with your ticket to the conference, which can be purchased here.