Tuesday night saw the launch of Elizabeth Baines‘ new novel, Too Many Magpies. I can’t wait to read it. It looks like a small-gem-of-a book. Elizabeth read from the beginning, then took questions, and then read some more from the end. The audience was so enthralled, we demanded more.
The entire evening was wonderful. The launch was held in the Calder Bookshop in London, first founded by John Calder, friend and publisher of Samuel Becket. The small shop is full of wonderful books which you’d only find in a small independent bookshop like this. And at the far end is a stage, complete with a curtain and lights, where theatrical productions were held and is now the perfect venue for a reading. Given Elizabeth’s own theatrical background, this space was a perfect choice.
It was great fun for me, too, because I got to see some of my writing friends there, like Tania Hershman and Debi Alper. And I was able to finally meet Salt Publishing‘s own Jen Hamilton-Emery. I must say, supporting each other’s work in this way is one of the great joys of being part of this community of writers which has come together via facebook and blogging. Not to mention the free wine.
So do go get Too Many Magpies. Elizabeth is a wonderful writer, as anyone who has read her short story collection, Balancing on the Edge of the World, will know. And to get you in the mood, here’s a song for you. Not exactly about magpies, but it’s still one of my favourites (thanks to peh74 for this video):
That sounds like my kind of bookshop! I must go next time I’m in town. And as for that song… it’s one of my faves too, of (possibly) my favourite album of all time. But I hadn’t heard that live performance. Thanks!
Sue, it was wonderful to have you there. Thank you so much for coming!
You’re right Sue, that bookstore sound wonderful.
The book shop sounds wonderful
I’m sure the book is as well.
Prefer George Harrison.
That sounds like a fabulous evening. I’d love to be closer to London and be able to attend these things.
I’ll have to look up this book too.
Is it a book of short stories or a novella? I love that cover, how beautiful. I’ve got a great book giveaway on Sunday, please come visit. x
DJ: Oops, you’re right. I should have said, it’s a novel. Though barely 150 pp, so maybe some might call it a novella? It’s being marketed as a novel, though.
All else: Thanks. yes, do check out the bookshop next time you’re around. Maybe it would be fun to compile a list of such bookshops around this great island of ours? There’s a blog posting in there, no?