Thursday, 14 November 2019
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like...
Thursday, 17 October 2019
The Weird and the Wonderful
An Evening with Erin Morgenstern | 25th November, 8:00pm, Greenside Church, Edinburgh
It has been eight years since The Night Circus first visited us and Erin is finally back with a new magical follow-up. The Starless Sea takes us on an adventure into a subterreanean labyrinth driven by stories and puzzles and it's the perfect November read. Come and ask Erin all your questions and discuss her wonderfully strange novels.
An Evening with Alan Lee | 12th November, 7:00pm, Waterstones Truro
Featuring brand new artwork by the incredibly talented Alan Lee, The Hobbit Sketchbook is a must-buy for Tolkienites. He'll tell us how he came to create the stunning illustrations that influenced Peter Jackson and gained himself an Academy Award. Alan will also be visiting a few other bookshops in November, so check out where you can catch him!
Titans of Sci-Fi: Peter F. Hamilton, Temi Oh, Stephen Baxter and Tamsyn Muir | 6th November, 7:00pm, Waterstones Piccadilly, London
Hop in a spaceship and explore the universe with some of the best-loved sci-fi writers of today. From a quest to discover a new habitable planet to lesbian necromancers in gothic space palaces, this will be a fascinating evening on where the genre is now and the endless ethers it still has to explore.
Meet Eoin Colfer | 30th October, 4:00pm, Waterstones Glasgow
Artemis Fowl fans, get ready to meet Artemis' younger brothers Myles and Beckett. The fantastic Eoin Colfer is back with the first instalment in a brand new series, full of madcap tricksy adventure. Get a signed copy and ask him all of your Fowl-related questions!
Meet James Nicol | 2nd November, 2:00pm, Waterstones Harrogate
On failing her final witchcraft assessment, Arianwyn is sent to a sleepy town called Lull to finish her training but Lull is far from the mundane place it seems. Come and meet James Nicol as he signs copies of his popular trilogy -which recently received beautiful new covers!
Book Signing with Sophie Anderson | 9th November, 11:00am, Waterstones Durham
Travel to ancient Russia and follow the story of Yanka, abandoned in a bear cave as a baby, as she begins her journey of self-discovery. Bestselling middle-grade author Sophie Anderson will be signing her Slavic folktale-inspired novels and discussing the weird and wonderful worlds they come from.
Thursday, 26 September 2019
Something Spooky This Way Comes
Hallowe'en Eve with Ruth Ware and Laura Purcell | 30th October, 6:30pm, Heffers Bookshop, Cambridge
Join two masters of bone-chilling fiction as they discuss their latest novels. In both books, young women take up new household positions and discover some dark secrets via some incredibly eerie events. Get ready for a truly twisty discussion!
Starve Acre: A Journey in English Folk Horror with Andrew Michael Hurley | 31st October, 7:00pm, Foyles Charing Cross Road, London
Folk horror is having a bit of a surge at the moment and it seems that not many writers do it better than The Loney author, Andrew Michael Hurley. Talking about his inspirations within the genre and his latest unsettling novel Starve Acre, it's the perfect literary Halloween night out.
Things We Say in the Dark: An Evening with Kirsty Logan and guests | 1st October, 6:30pm, Rose Street Theatre, Edinburgh
Kick off October with an evening of upcoming writers introducing their queer horror stories and grab a copy of Kirsty Logan's latest collection of dark feminist fairytales. Things We Say in the Dark has already been compared to the work of Angela Carter, so it's definitely a must-add to your spooky season to-be-read pile.
Top Marks For Murder with Robin Stevens | 6th October, 2:00pm, Guildhall, Bath
The brilliant Robin Stevens will be teaching us how to create the perfect crime story and the inspirations behind her much-loved detective duo Wells & Wong. You can even have a go at writing your own mystery!
Sophie Anderson Signing | 22nd October, 12pm, Waterstones Carlisle
Returning to Russian folklore for her second novel, Sophie Anderson brings us The Girl Who Speaks Bear. This strange magical tale is the perfect middle grade autumn read, so come and meet Sophie and get a copy signed!
Thriller vs Horror | 31st October, 7:00pm, Foyles Cabot Circus, Bristol
Do you prefer the cold atmosphere of a good supernatural horror or the pulse-racing suspense of a thriller? Which is more scary? YA authors Gabriel Dylan and Tracy Darnton debate both sides at this special Storytale Festival event.
Thursday, 22 August 2019
'Nolite te bastardes carborundorum.'
It comes at a time when the real world is growing increasingly more unstable and shocking. A time when women are still fighting for true equality, ownership of their own bodies and getting their voices heard. Atwood prefaces the new book with 'Dear Readers, everything you've ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we've been living in.'
The Testaments is released on 10th September and we're pretty sure you've already got it pre-ordered. But wouldn't it be great to celebrate your excitement at an event with fellow die-hard Atwood fans? If you're lucky enough to have grabbed a ticket to Margaret's sold-out in conversation event at London's National Theatre, you're in for a treat. However, do not despair - there are plenty more launch events around the country to attend!
Celebrating The Testaments with Sophie Mackintosh, Luiza Sauma and Lisa Appignanesi | 10th September, 6:30pm, Waterstones Hampstead
Join the conversation at Waterstones Hampstead with authors Sophie Mackintosh and Luiza Sauma who have both taken inspiration from Atwood for their own feminist dystopian novels. They'll be talking to Lisa Appignanesi about the importance of The Testaments in the world today and Atwood's legacy.
The Testaments launch - Handmaid's Breakfast | 10th September, 8:00am, Waterstones Leeds
Grab your copy of The Testaments as soon as the doors open and celebrate with breakfast! Many branches of Waterstones will be opening early on release day so take a look at what's going on at your local shop!
The Dystopian Novel and the Future of Gilead | 29th August, 6:00pm, Waterstones Northallerton
Come and discuss your thoughts on The Handmaid's Tale, your predictions for The Testaments and get 20% off your pre-order!
Thursday, 13 June 2019
Summer Pride
Thursday, 16 May 2019
Feeling Festive!
An Evening with Lauren James | 30th May, 6pm, Waterstones Nottingham, LGBT Festival
Get ready to be shot straight into the stratosphere with Lauren James' brand new YA sci-fi novel about two teens from a planet where a virus has caused global infertility. Hot on the heels of her fast-paced, jaw-dropping The Loneliest Girl in the Universe, The Quiet at the End of the World is set to be a new release you won't want to miss! Find out about other events at Waterstones Nottingham's LGBT Festival with Broad Strokes Books here.
Max Porter talks about Lanny | 1st June, 1pm, Compass Studio, Hay Festival
Author of Grief is the Thing with Feathers, Max Porter will be discussing his strange and enchanting new novel Lanny. He will be accompanied by Alula Down, a folk duo who will treat us to an original music score for a beautiful immersive Lanny experience. Check out more Hay Festival events here.
An Audience with Victoria Hislop | 20th June, 2pm, Penarth Pier Pavilion, Penarth Literature Festival
Delving into Greece's past, Victoria Hislop returns with Those Who Are Loved -a novel about a young woman who becomes entangled in an extraordinary life. Expect high emotion, high stakes and a truly engrossing read. Find out about other Penarth Literature Festival events here.
Jelly Boots, Uncle Gobb and a Bear Hunt with Michael Rosen | 25th May, 11:30am, Baillie Gifford Stage, Hay Festival
An hour of silliness awaits with much-loved children's author Michael Rosen. Meet Uncle Gobb, celebrate ridiculous made-up words and 30 years of everyone's favourite We're Going on a Bear Hunt!
Darren Simpson's Scavengers | 1st June, 2pm, Waterstones Derby, Derby Book Festival
Breaking rules, finding your true self and following your dreams are central themes to Darren Simpson's middle-grade novel Scavengers. Meet Landfill and find out what happens when you push beyond the boundaries. Find out about other Derby Book Festival events here.
David Solomons: My Cousin is a Time Traveller | 16th June, 12:30pm, Orchard Marquee, Borders Book Festival
It's not JUST about time travelling cousins in the latest David Solomons book -there is also a toaster trying to take over the world AND plenty of hilarious adventure! If you're in need of a giggle or two, this is one event you won't want to miss. Check out other Borders Book Festival events here.
Tuesday, 19 March 2019
Spring into a new season!
An Evening with Damian Barr | 10th April, 6:30pm, Waterstones Edinburgh West End
Presenting his first foray into fiction, award-winning columnist Damian Barr will be bringing You Will Be Safe Here to Edinburgh. Set across two time periods and inspired by true events, it explores the strength of the human spirit in his moving, compelling style. Come and listen to him discuss it with fellow writer Lee Randall. He'll also be in conversation with Margie Orford at Waterstones Piccadilly, London on 5th April.
Author Meet and Greet with Candice Carty-Williams | 10th April, 6:30pm, Waterstones Manchester Deansgate
One of the most highly-anticipated debut novels of the year, Queenie will finally launch next month. Candice Carty-Williams will be answering questions and signing copies of her refreshingly funny and inspirational book. She will also be chatting about it to June Sarpong at the Southbank Centre in London on 17th April!
An Evening with Ali Smith | 23rd April, 6:30pm, Waterstones Nottingham
At the turn of every season, we eagerly await a new instalment in Ali Smith's Seasonal Quartet series and Spring is finally here! Ask her your questions, get your books signed and listen to one of Britain's favourite contemporary novelists in conversation. Ali Smith will also visit Foyles on Charing Cross Road on 9th April.
A Morning with Jacqueline Wilson | 27th April, 11:00am, The Brodrick Hall Leeds
Having written over 100 books for children and young adults, Jacqueline Wilson's career is certainly a long and fascinating story. She will be relating all of her favourite anecdotes and imparting her top tips for young writers whilst introducing her latest release Dancing the Charleston, another wonderful historical novel. This is certainly an event not to be missed!
Emma Carroll Signing When We Were Warriors | 13th April, 11:00am, Waterstones Plymouth
Known for her emotional adventures set in tough times, Emma Carroll's latest novel is no different. When We Were Warriors is set during World War Two and highlights the imagination and resourcefulness of children during hardship. Including characters both old and new, it's a book that both her existing fans and those new to her books will enjoy, so come and get a signed copy! She will also be signing copies at Waterstones Bath on 20th April.
Meet Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler on The Gruffalo's Birthday! | 23rd March, 11:00am, Waterstones Piccadilly London
Did you know that The Gruffalo is turning 20 this year?! We couldn't believe it either! Picture book royalty Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler will be signing copies of a special anniversary edition of the book at Waterstones Piccadilly in London. However, you can still celebrate the Gruffalo's birthday at your local branch as several Waterstones shops are getting in on the fun. Find out what's going on near you!
Thursday, 14 February 2019
Love looks not with the eye but with the mind...
Dolly Alderton: Everything I Know About Love Live | 20th February, 7:30pm, Cambridge Corn Exchange
When it comes to the sinister world of dating, there's nothing Dolly Alderton hasn't tried. Everything I Know About Love includes her reflections on romance, adulting, heartbreak and success. Joined by her best friend Lauren Benstead, Dolly will impart her wisdom to fellow would-be grown-ups.
Meet Angela Dyson, author of The Love Detective | 23rd February, 12pm, Waterstones Swansea
Clarry Pennhaligan is a regular 26-year-old without a single whiff of a life plan. However, when best friend Laura recruits Clarry to check out new love interest Simon, Clarry turns detective and embarks on a series of madcap hilarious adventures. With a cast of colourful, loveable characters, the first in Angela Dyson's series looks set to be a winner! Pick up a signed copy at a bookshop near you!
An Evening with Mhairi McFarlane | 7th March, 6:30pm, Waterstones Nottingham
You never forget your first love... right?! When Georgina's new boss Lucas turns out to be the very same boy who stole her heart with a simple text 12 years before, it feels like it might finally be their time. But Lucas doesn't seem to remember her at all! Bestselling author Mhairi McFarlane will be discussing her brand new adorable rom-com and you won't want to miss it.
Guess How Much I Love You Activity Day | 18th February, 10am, Waterstones Watford
Remind your little ones how much you love them at this themed activity day. They can get busy with mazes, colouring, puzzles and you can both hunt for Little Nutbrown Hare who is hiding somewhere in the shop!
Teresa Heapy, Loved to Bits | 18th February, 2:30pm, Blackwell's Oxford
Bring along the teddies that you've loved to bits and settle down to a fuzzy story time. Teresa Heapy will be in store with her new story about a very well-loved bear before handing the storytelling over to you.
Story Time: Julian is a Mermaid | 17th February, 10:30am, Waterstones Leeds
When Julian sees three women dressed as mermaids, he develops a burning desire to look just the same. This wonderful story about loving and expressing your true self is an essential tale for the upcoming generation.
Friday, 18 January 2019
Press Release: The Bookseller acquires BookGig
BookGig, the publisher-agnostic website dedicated to book events launched by HarperCollins in October 2016, has been acquired by The Bookseller.
The site helps readers connect with their favourite authors by listing book related events for as many different authors and genres as possible. Since launch, BookGig has featured thousands of events across the UK including talks, signings, readings and other book-related activities from all major chain booksellers and over five-hundred independent retailers, plus literary festivals and publishing houses. A strong social media presence supported by authors, bookshops and readers has helped drive ticket sales for all types of events.
In addition to comprehensive listings of book-events across that UK that can be filtered by postcode, author or keyword, user-profile features allow users to create their own profile and receive personalised recommendations tailored to their favourite authors, genres, event types or preferred location, with events showcased on homepage carousels based on user activity and choices.
Nigel Roby, Chief Executive at The Bookseller said: “HarperCollins have done sterling work in creating BookGig. The Bookseller could not be more delighted to acquire it and take it to its next phase. Underpinning everything that The Bookseller does is a drive to get more books in the hands of more readers. Supporting live book events via BookGig is a perfect example of how we want to do that. It is the ideal complement to our reviews aggregation service, Books in the Media, which we launched at the end of last year.”
Jo Surman, Digital Director at HarperCollins said: “We’re really pleased with what we have achieved with BookGig. The website benefits everyone with an interest in book-related events, from publishers and booksellers through to literary festivals and of course readers, and The Bookseller is the perfect place for it to continue. We look forward to seeing it thrive in its new home.”
---Ends---
Issued by: Nigel Roby, Chief Executive
Tel: 0203 358 0361
Email: nigel.roby@thebookseller.com
Notes to Editors:
About The Bookseller
The Bookseller has been the weekly business magazine for the book trade since 1858. It runs The British Book Awards, the YA Book Prize, the Futurebook Live conference, two other market-leading conferences and website www.thebookseller.com