Medina Bookshop in Cowes — recently crowned Independent Bookshop of the Year for the South East — has announced an engaging programme of events over the coming months, offering visitors a mix of book launches, discussions, music and a charity quiz.
Curated by Paul Armfield, the independent bookshop continues to foster a vibrant cultural scene on the Isle of Wight, bringing together authors, artists and the local community.
Book launches: Fresh fiction and fascinating lives
On Saturday 29th March at 6pm, local author Katie Daysh will launch her latest novel, A Merciful Sea. This free event provides a chance to hear directly from the writer about her inspiration and the themes of her book. Readers can expect an insightful evening exploring the story’s development and its place in contemporary literature.
The following week, on Friday 4th April at 6pm, illustrator and author Zoe Sadler will unveil The Alchemist’s Oracle. Those attending will be among the first to discover this new work and engage in a discussion about the creative process behind it.
Ian A. Anderson: A Life in Music and Words
On Friday 11th April at 7pm, folk musician and journalist Ian A. Anderson will launch his biography with a special evening featuring both a talk and live music.
The event, priced at £12.50, offers a unique opportunity to hear Anderson share insights into his career and perform some of his work. Fans of folk and music history will find this a particularly compelling night.
Charity Quiz Night in Support of Youth Trust
On Wednesday 16th April at 8pm, Medina Bookshop will host a charity quiz night in aid of Isle of Wight Youth Trust, an organisation supporting young people’s mental health on the Isle of Wight.
Host Mathew Priest, from the band Dodgy, will guide teams through an evening of trivia and entertainment. Tickets for the quiz are £10, with proceeds going to a worthy cause.
Exploring the environment through words and discussion
Environmental themes take centre stage on Saturday 26th April at 7pm, when Wild Seas Wilder Cities brings together poetry, readings, and discussions. This event, priced at £5, promises to be an insightful exploration of nature, conservation and how urban and wild landscapes intersect.
On Wednesday 2nd July at 7pm, author and conservationist Nicholas Milton will give a talk on his latest book, The Restless Coast. Those attending will gain a deeper understanding of coastal ecosystems and the challenges they face, with a chance to ask questions and engage in discussion.
An evening of crime fiction with Marnie Riches
Crime-writing enthusiasts can look forward to Sunday 27th April at 7pm, when bestselling author Marnie Riches will visit Medina Bookshop.
With a reputation for gripping storytelling and complex characters, Marine’s event promises to be both entertaining and insightful. Tickets are available for £5.
A hub for literary and cultural engagement
Medina Bookshop’s upcoming events reflect its commitment to fostering a thriving literary and cultural community.
Whether attending a book launch, a thought-provoking discussion, or a charity quiz, visitors will find something to engage their interests.
Book now
Booking is recommended for ticketed events, and further details can be obtained directly from the bookshop.
For lovers of books, music, and conversation, these events offer the perfect opportunity to connect with authors, artists and fellow readers in the heart of Cowes.
