Local children’s author, Peter J. Murray, celebrated the launch of his latest book, The Even Darker Side of Wight, with not one, but two Halloween events over the weekend, bringing the Island’s darker stories to life for readers of all ages.
Launch at Dimbola Museum and Galleries
The first event took place at the atmospheric Dimbola Museum and Galleries in Freshwater, where guests enjoyed an evening packed with Halloween fun.
Visitors took part in a pumpkin hunt and dress-up competition, enjoyed spooky-themed cakes and gathered for a presentation by Peter, where he told one of the spine-chilling tales from The Even Darker Side of Wight, which is set at Dimbola Museum and Galleries itself.
Halloween night at The Lakes Rookley
The celebrations then continued on 31st October at The Lakes Rookley, where Peter hosted a second Halloween event with Away Resorts.
The evening was packed with activities, including dancing, musical statues, a dress-up competition, an art competition (judged by the illustrator of the book, Paul Bryn Davies) and a spooky family quiz!
Meet the illustrator
After the quiz got the evening warmed up, Peter welcomed the illustrator, Paul Bryn Davies, to discuss his work on the book and his earlier career, which included working on some of Stephen King’s earlier novels. Guests were given a fascinating insight into the work behind the images in the book and on the front covers.
Peter then introduced each of the stories in the collection, giving guests a glimpse into the tales and leaving plenty of unanswered questions about what happened next.
Costumes, dancing and prizes
After the presentations, the dancing began, with guests showing off an impressive array of Halloween costumes – from inflatable dinosaurs to terrifying witches, clowns, cats and more. To end the evening, prizes were awarded for best artwork, colouring, dancing and costume.
Both events gave readers, families and fans the opportunity to meet Peter and Paul and discover more about the stories behind his latest collection, celebrating the Island’s rich – and sometimes chilling – history in true Halloween style.
About the book
The Even Darker Side of Wight, published by local independent publisher Medina Publishing, follows the success of The Darker Side of Wight, published in 2024. The first collection was a huge success across the UK.
The Even Darker Side of Wight features ten eerie stories set in real places across the Island, blending fiction, myth and folktales.
Where to buy
The book is available to buy from Peter J. Murray’s website, as well as from local outlets across the Isle of Wight, including Dimbola Museum and Galleries, The Lakes Rookley and Medina Bookshop.
News shared by Charlotte on behalf of Medina Bookshop. Ed
