On Tuesday 10th May, Medina Bookshop in Cowes will be welcoming professional travel writer Mark Rowe to the bookshop to coincide with the publication of his book Isle of Wight (Slow Travel): Local, Characterful Guides to Britain’s Special Places.
A professional travel writer for over 20 years, Mark Rowe regularly contributes to the Independent, Telegraph and Guardian and various magazines and journals, including Countryfile and Nat Geo Traveller.
Rowe has previously written guides to both the Outer Hebrides and Orkney, and he’s become a bit of a specialist on Islands.
Visited over 30 times
He first visited the Isle of Wight as a teenager returning many times over the years as a birdwatcher, walker and eventually parent.
His research for the book required him to visit the Island over thirty times, always searching for the less obvious, the more subtle joys and quirky delights that we Islanders enjoy here.
Understanding of IW culture and history second to none
There can be no more discerning critic than a seasoned travel writer. It’s reassuring that Mark’s love and appreciation of the Island are present throughout the book.
He shines a flattering light on many diverse aspects, from food to trees, artists, churches. Even cemeteries get a mention. His depth of understanding of the Island’s culture and history is second to none.
A ‘slow guide’ encourages visitors and residents alike to walk, cycle or use public transport, to slow down and savour the pleasures that might otherwise be just a blur through the car window.
Armfield: At last, a guide book that does the Island justice
Medina’s bookseller, Paul Armfield, praises the guide,
“At last, a guide book that does the Island justice, at 312 pages there is so much great content that even the most clued-up resident will find something new to explore, and the illustrations and maps are a delight.
“I’ve seen Mark talk before. He is a very entertaining speaker. In his research, he turns over lots of stones and meets some fascinating characters.
“I look forward to hearing what traveller’s tales he has to recount about his work putting this brilliant book together.”
Book Now
In Conversation with Mark Rowe is being held on Tuesday 10th May between 7pm and 9pm at the Medina Bookshop.
Tickets cost £6. Please book your ticket in advance (due to limited capacity) by calling the Medina Bookshop on 01983 300044, booking online or visiting in person.
BYOB
The venue is not licensed, and therefore attendees are asked to bring their own refreshments with them.
News shared by Paul on behalf of Medina Books. Ed
