An award-winning comedian, a book launch and Murder on the Canal are just some of the highlights of this year’s Book Week Scotland in East Dunbartonshire.
East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust venues will host a number of exciting events between 13 and 19 November, with authors discussing their works and sharing their inspirations.
Book Week Scotland is an annual celebration of books and reading that takes place across the country and this year takes the theme of “Adventure”.
With the help of funding from the Scottish Book Trust, EDLC Libraries is hosting a handful of free in-person events at our local libraries.
EDLC Chair Councillor Jim Gibbons, said, "We are delighted to be taking part in this year’s Book Week Scotland. As always, we have interesting events taking place locally, including a book launch, a canal cruise and several Q&A sessions with authors.
“There will also be displays in branches exploring Book Week Scotland’s theme of the year – Adventure. Our usual programme of bookbugs, reading groups and family events will also be running so be sure to pop into your local library to join in the national celebration of reading this November. With the darker nights, there is no better time to get signed up to your library or look out your membership card, stock up on books at home, and rediscover the joy of getting lost in a book."
Josie Long, Bishopbriggs Library, Monday 13 November, 2pm
Meet the award-winning comic mastermind behind a collection of stories entitled Because I Don't Know What You Mean and What You Don't. Josie Long is a writer and stand-up comedian. She won the Best Newcomer Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and has been nominated three times for Best Show.
Her stories have been compared to the work of Miranda July, David Sedaris, and Kelly Link. What happens in a Josie Long story? Well, three teenagers believe they are witches; a woman defaces a local billboard; a bored landlord tries to influence his son's best friend; and a cul-de-sac WhatsApp group discusses eggs at length. Josie's unique skill is painting life in miniature to offer readers an escape from the mayhem of modern life. 
The event will be followed by an audience Q&A. Tickets are free so early booking is advised. Josie Long @ Bishopbriggs Library Tickets, Mon 13 Nov 2023 at 14:00 | Eventbrite [opens in a new window]
Rachelle Atalla Book Launch, Milngavie Library, Thursday 16 November, 7pm
Join us for the paperback launch of Thirsty Animals by Rachelle Atalla. Compelling, devastating and thought-provoking, Thirsty Animals takes us on a captivating journey of survival and self-discovery. The launch includes an audience Q&A. This event is free so please book early to avoid disappointment. Author Event! Rachelle Atalla launches the paperback of Thirsty Animals Tickets, Thu 16 Nov 2023 at 19:00 | Eventbrite [opens in a new window]
Murder on the Barge! From Southbank Marina, Kirkintilloch, with Allan Martin and Rhona Morrison, Friday 17 November, 2pm
An hour of literary entertainment aboard The Voyager canal boat awaits! Joining us for this unique cruise along the Forth and Clyde Canal are two exciting writers – Allan Martin and Rhona Morrison. Together, they will discuss the motives for murder – both factual and fictional. The cruise is followed by audience Q&A. Refreshments are included. This event is free and interest is expected to be high so book now to avoid disappointment!
Elsewhere across the libraries there will be displays in branches exploring Book Week Scotland’s theme of the year – Adventure. We will also have our usual programme of bookbugs, reading groups and family events so be sure to pop into your local library to join in the national celebration of reading this November.
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