On a clear October evening, The Bookery welcomed a full house for a sold-out event with local folklorist Mark Norman and his wife author/playwright Tracey Norman. With autumn mists rolling in and Halloween just around the corner, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect for a night of storytelling, witchcraft, and folklore.

Dominic welcomed the pair, noting Mark’s heroic appearance fresh from surgery (with painkillers possibly adding a touch of magic to the tales!). Mark has been a brilliant chair for us in the past, but this was our first time hosting Tracey and we were thrilled to welcome her.

The evening unfolded as a warm and witty conversation between the two authors, beginning with their co-authored book Devon’s Forgotten Witches 1860–1910. Tracey explained her fascination with this lesser-known period of witchcraft history, choosing it precisely because no one else had explored it. Her research uncovered dozens of stories from court records, newspaper archives, and local lore—many of which had never been published before. She described visiting the locations where these events took place and piecing together narratives from up to 30 different sources. The audience was captivated by the eerie twists and turns, and the sense of mystery that still lingers over these stories.

Mark then shared insights from his latest book Britain’s Folklore Year, which he explained he was commissioned to write by his publisher for the National Trust which takes readers on a journey through the seasonal customs and celebrations that shape British culture. From Maypole dancing and Padstow’s Hobby Horse Festival to egg rolling and coal carrying championships, the book is a celebration of the quirky, heartfelt, and sometimes downright bizarre ways communities mark the passage of time. Written around the “wheel of the year,” it also includes magical traditions and charms that accompany seasonal events

Mark read an extract about a particularly unusual conker championship, complete with its own set of eccentric rules and a cheating scandal that rocked the event in 2024. The audience was in stitches. We also got a glimpse into what’s next for both authors. Tracey is working on giving voice to women whose stories have been lost to history, while Mark is researching The Paranormal Simpsons (yes, really!) and compiling a new book on regional customs.

The evening wrapped up with a lively Q&A, followed by book signings and plenty of warm conversation. It was a night of laughter, learning, and a little bit of magic—just the kind of evening we love at The Bookery.

And yes, in case you’re wondering, we do have signed copies of Devon’s Forgotten Witches 1860–1910 and Britain’s Folklore Year available in-store and online HERE. Come and grab one while they last!

All photos by Felicity Billen Photography