Monday 3 October 2016

THE TENBY BOOK FAIR 2016 by Sharon Tregenza


Last weekend, in the beautiful seaside town of Tenby in West Wales, the fourth annual book fair took place.



Tenby, in Pembrokeshire, is a tourist's dream. A picturesque harbour town perched on a hilltop overlooking some of the most stunning beaches in the UK. 

The Book Fair is the brainchild of author, Judith Barrow with help over the last two years from another author, Thorne Moore.



                
Judith Barrow
Thorne Moore

From the minute the doors opened there was a constant stream of book-loving people milling around the hall. Presentations to competition winners and talks by authors and publishers ensured a constant buzz and the atmosphere was friendly and fun.




Selling books is only a small part of this yearly get together. Greeting old friends and making new is what it's all about and chatting to people who love reading is always a joy.


Janet Thomas of Firefly Press (centre) with two of their children's authors Sharon Marie Jones and Eloise Williams.

The addition of publishers for the first time this year was a great idea. Their talks drew many interested people and their advice for submissions was particularly popular.



Every year the crowds get bigger and this year, with twenty seven authors of various genres, and three publishers, it was the biggest attendance yet. And as an extra bonus - it's also a chance for me to catch up with the Welsh side of the family. 





Tenby Book Fair has a special place in my heart. At the end of the busy day I was tired and talked out but very happy.  That glass (or two) of wine was most welcome. Thank you, Judith Barrow and Thorne Moore. 










11 comments:

Mystica said...

It looked such a happy event!

Lynne Benton said...

Sounds brilliant, Sharon!

Sue Purkiss said...

Sounds lovely!

Penny Dolan said...

There is something very wonderful and inclusive about these "small" book festivals, especially when they're in places that have personal meaning or interest for you too. Tenby looks lovely in that photo, Sharon.

Sharon Tregenza said...

It is a special day. There's a real buzz and chatting to book lovers is always a treat.

DavidKThorpe said...

I was there too! I've just seen your post and had already written about it in my post which will go live tomorrow.

Sharon Tregenza said...

Hi David, oh dear. I suppose that was bound to happen one time. Still looking forward to reading your post though. Always nice to get another perspective too.

Penny Dolan said...

I'm glad that your post comes after Sharon's,though, David. Serendipity. Phew!

Christoph Fischer said...

Great post. Tenby is special and Judith and Thorne did a fantastic job with the fair. ��

Sharon Tregenza said...

Totally agree, Christoph. :)

Ellie said...

Only just seen this Sharon. Thanks for the mention lovely lady xx