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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260423T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260423T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260131T135924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T154923Z
UID:10643-1776970800-1776978000@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:'Why Women of a Certain Age Make The Best Characters' Kate Weston in conversation with Julia Tuffs and Amy Beashel
DESCRIPTION:Julia Tuffs and Amy Beashel are two very different authors writing in two very different genres with two very different female leads.\nWhat binds these fictional and non-fictional women?\nSimple: they’re middle aged and verging on mad.  \nIs it a coincidence that both authors wrote teen fiction before writing mid-life fiction? What makes middle-aged women such interesting characters? Are middle-aged women actually mad\, or is it that by the time they reach 45\, they’re no longer prepared to put up with the same old same old and are instead determined to bring about real-life change? \nThese and other questions will be posed by Kate Weston and then chewed over by all three authors with welcome contributions from the audience.  \nJULIA TUFFS\nHaving worked in TV for six years before re-training as a primary school teacher\, and via all compass points of London and the Isle of Wight\, Julia now lives in Teddington. She aims to write the kinds of books that will have people laughing out loud – and crying – on their commute. Her two ‘Hexed’ novels for young adults both won awards. Uproariously funny and deeply human\, her latest novel ’45 Things To Do Before You’re 45′ is an all-too relatable story of what it means to be alive and how much living we all still have to do. In the hope of re-discovering her sense of self\, the central character Charlie begins writing a list: 45 things to do before she’s 45. Eat an oyster\, Take up parkour\, Read War and Peace\, Take ecstasy\, Try stand-up comedy\, Go to a sex club. Determined to complete them all\, she embarks on a chaotic odyssey through her own spectacular midlife crisis\, challenging herself to become the person she wants to be. But what happens if we’re not that person? How do we learn to let them go? Or does something else have to give? \nAMY BEASHEL\nAmy lives in Shropshire with her husband and two kids. Her debut novel ‘The Sky is Mine’ was nominated for a CILIP Carnegie Medal 2021\, longlisted for the Branford Boase Award 2021 and shortlisted for the Bristol Teen Book Award 2020. Incidentally\, she is also officially the fastest woman in the world on a space hopper. Her latest novel ‘Bad Manners’ is a fierce and addictive read about lust and power\, the love we want versus the love we take\, and the tinderbox secrets that hide so well in the heart of families: ‘A nuanced exploration of the deep rooted misogyny that underscores society and the effect it has on women and girls’. \nKATE WESTON\nLondon based author Kate is a former stand-up comedian. The author of four YA books\, as well as her adult comedy murder mysteries ‘You May Now Kill The Bride’ and ‘How to Make a Killing’. Her YA feminist thriller\, ‘Murder on a School Night’\, was shortlisted for the YA Book Prize 2024 and its sequel ‘Murder on a Summer Break’ was shortlisted for a CrimeFest award.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/why-women-of-a-certain-age-make-the-best-characters-kate-weston-in-conversation-with-julia-tuffs-and-amy-beashel
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Julia-Tuffs-poster.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260501T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260501T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260322T141116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T154848Z
UID:10885-1777662000-1777669200@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:Jason McNiff - Songs of Love\, Loss and Light\, featuring the songs of Leonard Cohen
DESCRIPTION:Jason McNiff\, acclaimed English singer\, songwriter and guitarist\, returns with a compelling new show that brings together the timeless songs of Leonard Cohen with his own deeply lyrical work. \nBorn in Bradford and moving to London in the 1990s\, McNiff became a central figure in the city’s thriving folk and Americana scene. A regular performer at the legendary 12 Bar Club on Denmark Street\, he supported Bert Jansch on numerous occasions and signed to Snowstorm Records in 2000. His debut album\, Off the Rails\, received widespread acclaim\, earning glowing reviews\, particularly from Time Out magazine. \nMcNiff’s second album\, Nobody’s Son\, was named Americana UK Album of the Year in 2003\, while his fourth release\, April Cruel\, was nominated for Best Alt-Country Album at the Independent Music Awards in the United States. Over the years\, he has collaborated widely\, forming duos with Emily Barker and Emma Tricca\, and later the folk group Lone Malones. \nIn addition to his recording career\, McNiff has been an active force in the live music community. He co-ran the Easycome Acoustic Club with Andy Allan (Hank Dogs) and was a regular at Alan Tyler’s celebrated “Come Down and Meet the Folks” sessions. Since moving to Hastings in 2019\, he has hosted “The Sundowner” at the Jenny Lind\, welcoming musicians from around the world\, and performs regularly with his band. \nNow working on his tenth album\, McNiff continues to evolve as an artist. \nIn Songs of Love\, Loss and Light\, he places his own acclaimed songwriting alongside that of the Canadian master Leonard Cohen\, tracing the subtle thread between influence and originality. The result is an intimate and moving performance that offers audiences a rare glimpse into the enduring art of songcraft. \nBlending reverence with individuality\, McNiff reimagines Cohen’s legacy while showcasing the poetic depth of his own work—creating an evening that is both reflective and inspiring.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/jason-mcniff-songs-of-love-loss-and-light-featuring-the-songs-of-leonard-cohen
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/jason-Mcniff-poster.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260507T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260507T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260111T204231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T155243Z
UID:10506-1778180400-1778187600@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:'The World of EH Shepard' talk by James Campbell
DESCRIPTION:James Campbell has been involved with the world of E H Shepard\, best known for his illustrations of the children’s classics Winnie-the-Pooh and The Wind in the Willows\, for more than 25 years\, and over that time has become increasingly knowledgeable about E H Shepard’s life and work.  His first book\, ‘Shepard’s War’\, was runner-up for Military History book of the year in 2015\, followed by ’The Art of Winnie-the-Pooh’ in 2017 which accompanied a worldwide exhibition celebrating the 90th anniversary of original publication.  In 2025 he published a joint biography of A A Milne and E H Shepard\, which was widely reviewed – even on BBC Radio 4’s flagship ’Today’ programme.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/the-world-of-eh-shepard-talk-by-james-campbell
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/james-campbell.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260515T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260515T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20251221T143121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T143121Z
UID:10384-1778871600-1778878800@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:Awake Mother
DESCRIPTION:Awake Mother are a new duo from the south of England.\nThey are keen to share music from the folk tradition\, reigniting old favourites and introducing you to new songs and tales from times gone by.\nAwake Mother are Minnie Birch and Kathleen P\, two award winning\, critically acclaimed musicians who have joined together to present something new and special in the folk tradition.\nMinnie Birch has been writing and releasing music for many years. In 2020 she released an album called “You’re not singing anymore” which was a contemporary look at the relationship between football terrace songs and folk music. This work received critical acclaim and was named a Sunday Times Album of the year. She has toured extensively\, performed at The Great Escape Festival\, been BBC Radio 1s introducing artist of the week\, named Buzzfeed’s “one to watch” and supported Joan Armatrading on tour.\nKathy Pilkinton is an award winning folk musician. With her trio Said the Maiden\, she has performed at many of the countries prestigious folk clubs and festivals including Folk By The Oak\, Folkeast\, Gate to Southwell\, Shepley and Bunkfest. These opportunities have in turn led to invitations to support many fantastic artists including The Fisherman’s Friends\, Jim Moray\, Megson\, Martin Carthy and David Swarbrick. \n“I think every folk club in the country will be beating a path to their door” \nFatea
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/awake-mother
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Awake-Mother-Poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260602T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260602T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260315T114346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260315T114346Z
UID:10851-1780426800-1780434000@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:'IT ENDS HERE' author talk with Heidi Perks
DESCRIPTION:In this locked-room thriller\, a peaceful marina town becomes the scene of a terrifying hostage situation when five strangers are trapped inside a café at gunpoint. Outside\, their loved ones receive the worst phone call imaginable: someone they care about is in danger. As the hours tick by and tensions rise\, it becomes clear that one of the five is hiding a secret they would kill to keep. With its evocative island setting and mounting suspense\, It Ends Here brings the drama chillingly close to home. \nHeidi Perks is the Sunday Times bestselling author of Now You See Her—a Richard and Judy Book Club pick—as well as the acclaimed thrillers Come Back for Me\, Three Perfect Liars\, The Other Guest and The Whispers. Known for her brilliantly constructed plots and her sharp insight into the darker side of human relationships\, Heidi has become one of the UK’s most compelling voices in psychological suspense. \nDuring the evening\, Heidi will talk about the inspiration behind It Ends Here\, why she chose the Isle of Wight as the setting for this gripping story\, and how she crafts the twists and secrets that keep readers turning the pages. The event will include an audience Q&A and the opportunity to have books signed. \nWhether you’re already a fan or simply love an unputdownable thriller\, join us for a fascinating evening with a bestselling author whose latest novel brings high-stakes suspense to the Isle of Wight. \n‘Original and twisty. I was gripped from the very first page.’ \nCLAIRE DOUGLAS \n‘A multi-layered\, hugely intriguing story with jump off the page characters – I couldn’t stop turning the pages to find out \nwhat was going on\, loved it!’ \nANDREA MARA \n‘Packed with secrets\, twists\, and smart reveals\, this pulse-pounding thriller kept me guessing until the final page’ \nLUCY CLARKE \n‘An intense\, immersive thriller filled with enough secrets and lies to keep you guessing right to the very end’ \nTM LOGAN \n‘I loved this book. A human story with believable characters and no gratuitous gore. Just my cup of tea.’ \nJANE CORRY\n‘Tense\, twisty and unputdownable’ \nASIA MACKAY \n‘A refreshing take on the ‘whodunnit’. Emotional\, tense and twisty\, as we’ve come to expect from the brilliant Heidi Perks. \nThis is definitely her best yet. An absolute must-read!'  \nCAZ FREAR \n‘Perks combines taut suspense with an extraordinary understanding of human nature and high-stakes relationships. Every\npage tightens the grip on an utterly propulsive plot … immersive\, insightful\, and impossible to put down. I was hooked from \nthe very first page!’\nAMANDA CASSIDY \n‘A gripping exploration of how well we know the people we love.’ \nKELLY MULLEN \n‘Compulsive and gripping\, brilliantly constructed. Heidi Perks is at the top of her game’ \nSABINE DURRANT
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/it-ends-here-author-talk-with-heidi-perks
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk,Book Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Heidi-Perks-poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260606T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260606T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20251221T140759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T115600Z
UID:10380-1780772400-1780779600@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:Tom Bright
DESCRIPTION:Tom Bright is a relentlessly touring songwriter whose songs land with emotional weight and unvarnished honesty. 2025 saw him make his third television appearance on BBC One’s Sunday Morning Live\, serenade thousands at his fifth Glastonbury Festival\, and sell out shows across the UK and beyond. \nArmed with a guitar signed by Johnny Marr of The Smiths and John Squire of the Stone Roses\, Bright’s tireless graft has seen him hit iconic heights of the London Palladium\, Shepherd’s Bush Empire\, appear on BBC’s The One Show and Sky News\, and record countless live sessions and interviews for BBC Radio 2\, 5 Live\, Radio X and more. Along the way\, he’s shared stages with The Libertines\, Mystery Jets\, Tom Grennan\, Reverend & The Makers\, Katherine Priddy\, Ed Harcourt and others. \nHe has collaborated with The The\, earned continued support from tastemakers Guy Garvey and John Kennedy and spent two years on Spotify’s Most Beautiful Songs in the World playlist with ‘If I Met Your Shadow’. \nIn May\, Tom released Young Old Bloke\, a collection of early songs produced by Mick Jones (The Clash) and Dirty White. He has three previous albums in the world — all produced by Ed Harcourt. Away from the stage\, his story is just as remarkable: once the UK’s youngest pub landlord\, and a childhood marked by multiple life-saving surgeries. \nTom is currently working on his fifth studio album\, with Blaine Harrison (Mystery Jets) handling production. \nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombrightmusic/\nFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/tombrightmusic\nSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5FeiISr6o8mHNSTNtwKceS\nTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombrightmusic
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/tom-bright
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Roses-Photo-Museum-Style-Small-Poster-A4-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260618T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260618T213000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260214T154228Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260214T154228Z
UID:10733-1781809200-1781818200@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:An Evening Of Old Songs Sung By 'Soft Lap'
DESCRIPTION:‘I have fallen so completely in love with this book… just one of the finest\, most covetable things around’ Katherine Rundell \nBest-selling historian and author Amy Jeffs\, musician Natalie Brice and illustrator Gwen Burns have created Old Songs\, a reimagining of ten traditional British ballads. Each artist applied her primary trade: word\, music and image respectively\, but each also influenced the others’ work. \nIn this live performance\, Amy will offer historical insights and readings from the stories\, while Gwen will showcase animations created from the illustrations and Natalie will lead them both in mesmerising sung renditions of the earliest known melodies of the ballads themselves. Old Songs fuses short stories\, histories\, lyrics and illustrations in an enthralling reimagining of traditional folk ballads. Sunday Times Bestselling historian Amy Jeffs and Illustrator Gwen Burns combine forces to create a rich compendium\, singing of travel\, mystery\, magic and the essential urges of humanity. \nFeaturing iterations of fairy tales and sinister descendants of Greek myths and bible stories\, as well as a cast of lesser-known characters with names like Tam Lim\, Child Wynd and Maisery\, Old Songs threads a tapestry of Britain’s landscape\, history and cultures. At the base of hills we can visit to this day\, elf queens kidnap hapless poets and carry them through rivers of blood; and at the foot of a tree whose offspring still stand in the forests of Northumberland\, a girl mimes combing the hairless head of a dragon who was once her brother. \nDr Amy Jeffs is an author\, artist and medievalist. During her PhD in Art History at the University of Cambridge\, she co-convened a project researching medieval badges and pilgrim souvenirs at the British Museum. She then worked in the British Library’s department of Ancient\, Medieval and Early Modern manuscripts. Now a Somerset-based author\, she illustrates her books with print and paper cutout. Storyland: A New Mythology of Britain was published in 2021. It was a Sunday Times bestseller and a Waterstones Book of the Month\, as well as being shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year. Wild: Tales from Early Medieval Britain was published in 2022. Its audiobook\, illustrated with 7 original songs\, was named Audiobook of the Week by the Guardian and the Times.  \nAmy will be discussing her work with Bookshop manager Paul Armfield on the following night Friday 19th.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/an-evening-of-old-songs-sung-by-soft-lap
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk,Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Soft-Lap-Poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260619T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260619T190000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260214T151006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T123755Z
UID:10729-1781895600-1781895600@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:An Evening In The Company of Amy Jeffs
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Amy Jeffs is an author\, artist\, and medievalist whose work delves deeply into the art and culture of the Middle Ages. She completed her PhD in Art History at the University of Cambridge\, where she co-convened a research project on medieval pilgrim souvenirs in collaboration with the British Museum and also worked extensively with the manuscript collection of the British Library. \nNow based in Somerset\, Jeffs brings her scholarship to life through a unique fusion of words and images\, illustrating her own books with linocuts\, wood engravings\, and paper cut-outs. Her debut\, Storyland: A New Mythology of Britain\, became a Sunday Times bestseller\, was shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year\, and was named a Times Historical Fiction Book of the Year. \nHer second book\, Wild: Tales from Early Medieval Britain\, explores ancient conceptions of wilderness through medieval tales of exile\, monsters\, and the natural world. This was followed by Saints: Legends of Heroes\, Humans and Magic\, and most recently Old Songs\, a collection that reimagines fairy tales and reawakens shadowed descendants of Greek myths and biblical stories. Featuring figures such as Tam Lin\, Child Wynd\, and Maisery\, Old Songs weaves a vivid tapestry of Britain’s landscape\, history\, and culture. \nAcross its pages\, elf queens abduct poets at the foot of hills we can still climb today; rivers of blood run beneath their worlds. In a forest of Northumberland\, beneath a tree whose lineage endures\, a girl gently mimes the act of combing a dragon’s bald head—a creature who was once her brother. (The author will be performing these songs with her band ‘Soft Lap’ the previous night also at Medina Bookshop).
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/an-evening-in-the-company-of-amy-jeffs
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk,Book Signing
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Amy-Jeffs-Poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260322T135753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T135753Z
UID:10881-1783018800-1783026000@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:An evening with the Wight Nature Fund (part of the IW Biosphere Festival)
DESCRIPTION:The evening will begin with an introduction to WNF and its current focus\, Mill Copse\, a beautiful site just south of Yarmouth and the only land presently under the charity’s care. You’ll then hear about traditional hedge laying and the Isle of Wight Tree Warden Network\, highlighting the importance of practical conservation skills and community involvement. \nAfter a short interlude\, we will showcase WNF’s publications\, including Yarmouth and Shalfleet: Coastal Town and Country Parish\, as well as a preview of an exciting new book in progress exploring the trees of the Isle of Wight. \nWith musical interludes throughout\, the evening will conclude with an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how you can support local conservation efforts. \nWhether you’re passionate about wildlife\, interested in local history\, or simply curious about the natural environment around you\, this promises to be an inspiring and informative event. \nWelcome to Wight Nature Fund \n \nhttps://iwbiosphere.org/biospherefestival
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/an-evening-with-the-wight-nature-fund-part-of-the-iw-biosphere-festival
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/wight-nature-fund-poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T220000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260322T142626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T142626Z
UID:10889-1784228400-1784239200@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:Charity Quiz Night for Independent Arts
DESCRIPTION:With prizes aplenty and various alcoholic incentives throughout the evening\, expect challenging but fun rounds on various topics devised by quizmaster Paul Armfield\, including two music rounds performed live by the wonderfully entertaining Ventnor Darlings duo. You’ll have loads of fun raising money for a very worthy cause: \nIndependent Arts – Transforming Lives Through Creativity \nFounded in 1987\, Independent Arts is a pioneering Isle of Wight charity dedicated to improving wellbeing\, reducing social isolation\, and enhancing quality of life through the arts. \nAt the heart of its work is the belief that creativity can bring people together\, build confidence\, and support mental and emotional health across all ages and backgrounds. \nCreative Health & Wellbeing \nIndependent Arts delivers a wide range of arts-based programmes designed to support wellbeing. These include visual arts\, music\, movement\, and creative workshops that encourage self-expression while providing vital social connection. \nTheir activities are particularly impactful for: \nOlder people and care home residents\nIndividuals experiencing loneliness or isolation\nPeople with disabilities or mental health challenges \nThrough initiatives like Workshops for Wellbeing\, the charity reaches thousands of participants each year\, helping unlock creativity\, stimulate memory\, and improve overall happiness and health. \nExtensive Community Reach \nThe charity runs around 25 weekly workshops across the Island\, both at its Creative Hub in Newport and in community settings such as schools and care homes. \nIts work extends into: \nSchools and youth programmes\nFamily-friendly creative sessions\nOutreach projects in rural and urban communities \nThese programmes are designed to be inclusive and accessible\, often free or low-cost\, ensuring that as many Islanders as possible can take part. \nSupporting Young People \nIndependent Arts has delivered targeted projects for young people\, using creativity to build confidence\, skills\, and connections to the Island’s landscape and heritage. \nFor example\, collaborative projects like public murals have helped young participants explore their environment\, develop artistic skills\, and feel a sense of ownership and pride in their community. \nCelebrating Creativity Across Generations \nA key strength of Independent Arts is its intergenerational work. From young people to care home residents\, the charity brings together diverse groups through shared creative experiences. \nTheir exhibitions—often showcasing work created in workshops—highlight the talent and voices of participants\, reinforcing the idea that creativity is for everyone\, at any stage of life. \nEvents\, Exhibitions & Cultural Contribution \nThrough exhibitions\, festivals\, and community collaborations (such as involvement in initiatives like The Big Draw)\, Independent Arts plays a vital role in the Island’s cultural life. \nTheir Creative Hub in Newport acts as a welcoming space where people can: \nTake part in workshops\nView community artwork\nConnect with others through shared creative experiences\nA Lasting Impact \nOverall\, Independent Arts has made a profound contribution to the Isle of Wight by: \nReducing loneliness and social isolation\nImproving mental health and wellbeing\nCreating accessible opportunities for creativity\nStrengthening community connections\nCelebrating local voices and talent \nTheir work demonstrates how the arts can be a powerful tool for positive social change—bringing people together\, inspiring confidence\, and enriching lives across the Island.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/charity-quiz-night-for-independent-arts
LOCATION:Island Sailing Club\, 70 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Music,Quiz
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Quiz-Night-IA-Poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260805T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260805T203000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260322T143422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T143422Z
UID:10893-1785956400-1785961800@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:'There Is No Second' - Talk by by Magnus Wheatley
DESCRIPTION:Join acclaimed maritime writer and historian Magnus Wheatley for a fascinating talk on his book There Is No Second\, exploring the dramatic origins of the America’s Cup—the oldest international sporting trophy in the world. \nWheatley brings to life the story of the very first race in 1851\, when the schooner America stunned the British fleet off the Isle of Wight\, forever changing the course of competitive sailing. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research\, he uncovers the personalities\, rivalries and innovation that defined this pivotal moment in sporting history. \nAt the heart of the story lies the famous declaration\, “There is no second\,” a phrase that captures the uncompromising spirit of elite competition and the enduring legacy of the race. \nThis talk offers a compelling insight into ambition\, ingenuity and the birth of a global sporting phenomenon—perfect for sailing enthusiasts\, history lovers\, and anyone captivated by stories of bold challenge and triumph on the open water.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/there-is-no-second-talk-by-by-magnus-wheatley
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Author talk,Book Signing
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ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260806T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260806T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260322T144241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T144241Z
UID:10897-1786042800-1786050000@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:'East Cowes Shanty' singing songs of the sea for Cowes Week
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Cowes Week with an evening of rousing sea songs and maritime tradition as East Cowes Shanty bring their unmistakable energy to Medina Bookshop. \nKnown for their rich harmonies and spirited performances\, this much-loved local group will transport you to the high seas with a collection of traditional sea shanties and nautical favourites. Expect tales of adventure\, hardship and camaraderie\, all delivered with warmth\, humour and plenty of audience participation. \nSet in the intimate surroundings of Medina Bookshop\, this special concert offers a unique chance to experience the sounds of the sea in the heart of Cowes Week festivities. \nCome along\, join in\, and let the rhythm of the waves carry you away.
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/east-cowes-shanty-singing-songs-of-the-sea-for-cowes-week
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/East-Cowes-Shanty-Poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260926T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260926T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260322T152433Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T152433Z
UID:10901-1790449200-1790456400@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:PETUNIA
DESCRIPTION:Step into an evening of rich storytelling and spellbinding song as the enigmatic singer-songwriter Petunia brings a rare solo performance to Medina Bookshop. \nBlending elements of folk\, country\, ragtime and old-time roots\, Petunia’s music feels both timeless and refreshingly original—like a late-night radio broadcast drifting in from another era. With a voice that can shift from tender and intimate to wild and weathered\, and lyrics full of wit\, longing and unexpected turns\, every song is its own small world. \nExpect tales of love and loss\, strange journeys and beautiful misadventures\, all delivered with charm\, humour and a touch of the surreal. In the cosy\, book-lined setting of Medina Bookshop\, this promises to be a truly immersive and memorable night—part concert\, part storybook\, and wholly unique. \nCome along\, settle in\, and let Petunia carry you somewhere else for a while. \nPetunia is more than just an entertainer\, he’s a modern musical enigma.  Imagine that David Lynch and Nick Cave had a hillbilly baby\, that yodeled… or Tom Waits meets Elvis at Woody Guthrie’s hobo junction.  This is just one way of describing the man known simply as Petunia.  He’s an adventure seeker\, a poker player\, and a mysterious stranger.  He’s been referred to as “The Savior of Country Music”\, and a man who exists in a different era\, bringing the past forth as something new to be celebrated and not forgotten.  \nPetunia grew up in rural Quebec\, in exactly the sort of surroundings that a country musician would find idyllic\, with old dilapidated barns\, secret forts\, and acres of unspoiled land.  As an adult\, the wandering spirit took a firm hold on his life\, so he set out on the road\, playing every major street corner across Canada and throughout the NYC subway system\, before graduating to full fledged touring musician.  When he’s not on the road playing shows\, Petunia is also involved in the theatre world; building side projects\, writing scores\, acting\, or collaborating with theatre artists.  He currently resides in Vancouver BC\, and works with several sets of sidemen across Canada\, the US and Europe in addition to his own Vancouver based band\, The Vipers. A restless wanderer\, a musical historian\, and a quirky yet amazing talent\, Petunia is simply a Canadian treasure joining the greats from north of the 49th. \nA poem by Al Mader describing Petunia: \nRazor sharp hombre\nall snake eyes and boxcars\nsteals a kiss from a raven-haired\nflapper – slips out the side window\nof a 1920s speakeasy\nOut fleet foots a flat foot\nhops a train to\nBuddy Bolden’s tombstone\nwins some horseflesh playing\nhigh stud – pitches camp\nbeneath a prairie sky\nwatched over by a full moon\nand a lovesick coyote\nhowling for mercy…
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/petunia
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Petunia-poster-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261106T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261106T213000
DTSTAMP:20260414T090428
CREATED:20260130T145111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T145111Z
UID:10629-1793991600-1794000600@medinabookshop.com
SUMMARY:Detta Kenzie
DESCRIPTION:DETTA KENZIE is an indie-folk singer and songwriter whose music\, while often touched by traditional Celtic folk influences\, is guided by a thoroughly modern and independent spirit. Her sound blends the richness of folk storytelling with elements of soul\, cinematic minimalism and leftfield pop\, creating music that is emotionally expansive\, intimate and unmistakably her own.  \nHer songs are threaded with themes of transformation\, survival and renewal. There’s a quiet spellcasting in her work\, pulling listeners into a sonic world shaped by a love of language\, a skill honed during her years as a secondary English teacher. \nIn 2025\, she began a creative partnership with award-winning guitarist Chris Cleverley. Together they are crafting a sound that feels both grounded and dreamlike\, combining intricate\, genre-crossing guitar work with immersive arrangements and a shared instinct for musical storytelling. Their collaboration spans co-written songs and bold reinterpretations of folk material\, expanding the boundaries of acoustic  music.​ \nDetta has opened for folk  greats Martin Simpson and Phil Beer\, and collaborated with celebrated artist Tobias ben Jacob. With a growing body of work and a voice defined by precision\, boldness and creative intent\, Detta Kenzie is emerging as a powerful and distinctive presence in contemporary folk\, rooted in tradition yet always reaching beyond it. \n“Detta Kenzie is a singer of siren songs with a voice likely to lure the unsuspecting onto the rocks.”\nFATEA Magazine\n​\n“Detta has the ability to fully inhabit the song\, to wring from it every last emotion. Stunning.”\nDownend Folk & Roots\n​\n“A very special singer.”\nGavin McNamara\, Bristol24/7 \n“Detta Kenzie goes in at the deep end with (Reynardine) a bold choice of single… Hitting the heights of a higher register within a few seconds\, conjuring up the iconic Sandy Denny take.”\nMike Ainscoe\, At The Barrier\n​​\n“Her music has a depth and honesty that is both exciting and unique.”\nSt George’s Bristol
URL:https://medinabookshop.com/event/detta-kenzie
LOCATION:Medina Bookshop\, 50 High Street\, Cowes\, Isle of Wight\, PO31 7RR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://medinabookshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Roses-Photo-Museum-Style-Small-Poster-A4-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paul Armfield":MAILTO:paul@medinapublishing.com
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