Posts by Cliff

Some evenings at The Bookery unfold in a way that gently widens the world, and our recent event with Philip Marsden and Sasha Swire was one of those. The conversation centred on Philip’s remarkable book, Under a Metal Sky, a work that explores humanity’s deep and complicated relationship with the minerals beneath our feet. Rooted in the landscapes of Cornwall, yet stretching across Europe and across centuries, the book traces how metals and minerals have shaped our tools, our technologies … Read more

The Bookery was delighted to host bestselling crime author Tom Hindle on a wet evening in Thursday, joined by friend and thriller writer Orlando Murrin. Orlando first asked Tom where else he is travelling to for the launch of his new book A Killer In Paradise. We were proud to learn that the Bookery was his first bookshop to visit for this book launch, before he travels to the North West and attending a few festivals. Orlando encouraged full support … Read more

What a way to begin a new year of events at The Bookery. On a crisp January evening, every seat was filled for a conversation that proved as nourishing as it was intimate. Eco‑psychotherapist, herbalist and writer Brigit Anna McNeill joined us to share the stories behind her new book, The Wild Within: What Plants Taught Me about Life, Recovery and Renewal, in a beautifully free‑flowing conversation led with brilliance and sensitivity by Sophie Pavelle. Opening the conversation Sophie described … Read more

What a way to round off our year of author evenings! Despite Storm Claudia drenching the streets, The Bookery was warm and buzzing as a full house gathered for a truly special event with Dr Michael J. Warren, author of The Cuckoo’s Lea – The Forgotten History of Birds and Place, in conversation with the acclaimed environmental campaigner and writer Guy Shrubsole. From the moment the discussion began, we were transported into a world where birds and place names intertwine, … Read more

On a damp but surprisingly warm November evening, we packed up our Bookery spirit and headed to the Crediton Congregational Church for something truly special—our first event outside the shop in two years. And what an occasion to mark the moment: a celebration of Britain’s incredible craft heritage with BAFTA-nominated broadcaster and historian James Fox, joined by Camilla Hampshire MBE, Chair of MAKE Southwest. From the start, the atmosphere was warm and appreciative. Camilla, chairing her very first author event … Read more

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 … Read more

We were proud to begin our autumn programme of author and community events with a deeply moving tribute evening in honour of Frank Letch MBE—former Mayor of Crediton, tireless advocate for disability rights, and cherished member of our local community. Organised in collaboration with Frank’s wife Natalia Letch, the evening brought together friends, family, and admirers to celebrate a life lived with extraordinary courage, humour, and compassion. Devon County Councillor Steve Keable, a close friend of Frank’s, joined Natalia in … Read more

We wrapped up our spring/summer author season at The Bookery with a packed house and an evening that left us all inspired, thoughtful, and just a little bit more in love with the natural world. Our guest was Merlin Hanbury-Tenison, Cornish conservationist, veteran, and author of the powerful memoir Our Oaken Bones. Guiding the conversation with warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the subject was Nick Bruce-White, CEO of Devon Wildlife Trust. Together, they took us on a journey through … Read more