Summer Pride

June rings in Pride month and what better excuse to celebrate our true authentic selves? It's a time of bright colours, zero prejudice and above all else, love in all its forms. We've collated a bunch of exciting LGBT+ themed events happening over the next few weeks, showcasing the best queer talent across the arts. We recommend attending as many as you can!

Penguin Pride London: Turn It Up | 27th June, 7:30pm, Royal Vauxhall Tavern

Hosted by the fabulous Crystal Rasmussen on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, enjoy an evening of readings and performances from a stellar line-up of LGBT writers and artists. Penguin Pride will also be hitting Liverpool on 26th July and Manchester on 21st August.

The Need for Safe Queer Spaces with Matthew Todd and Niven Govinden | 2nd July, 6:30pm, Waterstones Gower Street 

Despite increasing levels of acceptance, safe spaces both on and offline are essential for young queer people. Matthew Todd and Niven Govinden look back on how far these spaces have come since the Stonewall riots of 1969 and how far we still have to go. Matthew will also be on tour with his book Pride throughout July. Find out where you can catch him here.

Pride in Writing: An Evening of LGBTQ+ authors | 4th July, 6:30pm, Waterstones Piccadilly 

Get 15 authors for the price of one! Compere Stella Duffy will be joined by names such as Patrick Gale, Juno Roche and Julie Cohen for a range of panel events exploring queering genre, gender fluidity and more. You can get your books signed too!

Youth Pride with Simon James Green | 6th July, 3pm, Quarry Theatre Bedford 

Noah Can't Even author Simon James Green will be discussing his brand new rom-com Alex in Wonderland at BookTastic Festival. As a contributor to Juno Dawson's new anthology Proud, Simon will also be discussing pride within the wider YA community. 

Meet Robin Stevens | 22nd June, 2:30pm, Waterstones Exeter 

Celebrating five years of Wells and Wong, the amazing Robin Stevens will be signing copies of her complete rainbow of books. Don't forget to pick up a special anniversary edition of Murder Most Unladylike too! Check out where else you can catch Robin soon.

Young Adult Book Club: Birthday by Meredith Russo | 2nd July, 6:30pm, Waterstones Canterbury Rose Lane 

Discover the brand new heartbreaking novel from If I Were Your Girl author Meredith Russo. Birthday follows two best friends who gradually grow apart as they struggle to live their authentic lives. Drop into the YA book club meeting to discuss this beautiful new story.

Feeling Festive!

Long days, warm weather and a ton of exciting new releases - in the book event world, it can only mean festival season. We've picked just some of our most anticipated festival events around the UK this summer to treat you to, so go ahead -grab a book or two and head outside!

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. 

Spring into a new season!

Ok, so there are still some pretty chilly winds out there but a few shy bits of blue sky, daffodils and bluebells are starting to creep in, which can only mean one thing -spring is on its way! As much as it is a time for new beginnings, it's also a time for EXCELLENT book events. We've collated just some of the most exciting author appearances and celebrations going on near you. Take your pick!

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! 

Love looks not with the eye but with the mind...

Hearts, flowers, chocolates, stuffed animals... Ok, commercialism has made it cheesy but Valentine's Day can be a glorious celebration of love in all its forms. Whether you're planning on having a delicious meal with your partner, a cosy night in with your closest friends or simply basking in your own amazing self, we've got an upcoming love-fuelled book event for you! 


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.

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

It’s beginning to look a lot like…

The TV ads are beginning to roll out, the street lights are being hung up and we’ve started our shopping. Whether you like it or not, Christmas is fast approaching! But there is still plenty of time to discover some fantastic new reads for that hard-to-buy-for uncle, the friend who has everything, or even a treat for yourself. We’ve rounded up the best pre-Christmas events, so consider this our bookish gift guide!

Christmas Girls Night Out | 21^st November 7:00pm, Waterstones Leeds

Not one, not two… not even three, but FIVE fantastic romance authors will convene with mince pies and prosecco to discuss their latest books. Milly Johnson, Karen Swan and Heidi Swain all have cosy festive releases while Cathy Bramley and Lucy Dillon have both published heartwarming books this year. Join them for an evening of giggles!

Gothic Fiction: Laura Purcell and Stuart Turton | 26^th November 6:00pm, Waterstones Manchester 

There’s just SOMETHING about misty landscapes and big empty houses that is horrifically intriguing, isn’t there? Laura Purcell’s The Corset is a chilling tale of murder and madness set against a backdrop of a Victorian prison, while Stuart Turton’s mind-boggling debut The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a labyrinth you’ll struggle to escape from. Take a look at where else they'll be visiting near you!

In Conversation with the Birmingham women who ‘dared to dream’ | 22^nd November 6:00pm, Foyles Grand Central Birmingham 

For an evening of inspiration from real-life Birmingham women with incredible stories to tell, head to Foyles in Grand Central. Journalist and activist Salma Zulfiqar, top mathematician Dr Sara Jabbari and domestic abuse campaigner Raj Holness will all be celebrating the release of Once Upon a Time in Birmingham: Women Who Dared to Dream.

Christina Gabbitas signing Save Us | 24^th November 11:00am, WHSmith Doncaster 

Highlighting the importance of limiting our plastic use, the beautiful new picture book from Christina Gabbitas, Save Us, is the rescue story of a seal, a whale and a turtle. Featuring stunning illustrations from Julie Omond, this is the perfect gift for little ones this Christmas. And you can get it signed at WHSmith Doncaster!

2018 Christmas Book Festival | 25^th November 11:00am, Waterstones London Finchley Road 

An incredible 13 authors and illustrators will assemble to sign copies of their much-loved children’s and YA books. Names such as M. G. Leonard, David Solomons and Anna James will be dropping in throughout the day so make sure you pick up a few special gifts!

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls Story Hour: Michelle Obama Special | 17^th November 11:00am, Waterstones Piccadilly London 

Michelle Obama’s Becoming is finally here and feminist theatre company Fat Rascal Theatre are celebrating with one of their hugely popular story hours! Children aged 5-10 can discover the inspiring life story of the former FLOTUS through this funny, interactive storytelling event. 

Autumn Treasures

Fallen orange leaves, crisp cool air and cosy woolly scarves: autumn is definitely here! Why not take a flask, head to your local park (which is looking beautiful right now, by the way) and enjoy a brand new book? Or simply turn the heating on and curl up on the sofa with one, of course. Better yet, get your coat on and head out to meet some fantastic authors – you won’t want to miss this exciting line-up of events!

An Evening with Laini Taylor | 29th October 6:30pm, Waterstones Liverpool 

The highly-anticipated sequel to Strange the Dreamer is finally here. Muse of Nightmares takes us back to the ancient city of Weep with all its heartache, drama and it picks up from THAT dramatic ending. Known for her lyrical, whimsical writing style, Laini Taylor is an author you won’t want to miss out on.

An Evening with Mari Hannah | 2nd November 6:30pm, Waterstones Newcastle

Acclaimed crime writer Mari Hannah is back with another gripping instalment of her Stone and Oliver series, which began earlier this year with The Lost. Better known for her DCI Kate Daniels books, Mari is a much-loved author in the police procedure genre and The Insider is bound to keep you up at night.  

An Evening with Markus Zusak | 29th October 6:30pm, Waterstones Manchester Deansgate 

It has been 13 years since The Book Thief was first published and to date, it’s still Markus Zusak’s most recent novel. However, Bridge of Clay is on the horizon. A hard-hitting, emotional family story delivered in Zusak’s unique poetic prose, this event is a must-attend for all Book Thief fans.

Mini Rabbit Not Lost: Story Time and Live Illustration with John Bond | 25th October 11:00am, Foyles London Charing Cross Road, London

Only the very best berries will do for Mini Rabbit’s cake, so off he goes on an epic journey across oceans, forests and mountains to find them! He’s not lost… is he? Join award-winning illustrator John Bond as he reads from his brand new autumnal picture book and draws live!

A Telling of Stories with David Almond | 28th October 1:00pm, St Katherine’s Hall, St Andrews 

This very special event sees much-loved children’s author David Almond reading from four of his novels, including his latest The Colour of the Sun. Harnessing warmth, light and hope, David’s stories have a wide appeal and the whole family is sure to fall in love with them.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald Launch Party | 16th November 9:00am,Waterstones Redhill 

The second chapter of the Fantastic Beasts saga is almost upon us. Dive back into the world of Newt as he helps Dumbledore defeat the evil Grindelwald. To celebrate the launch of the screenplay’s publication, many branches of Waterstones are holding magical events such as quizzes, crafts, competitions and more. Check out what’s happening near you!