World Book Night, the annual celebration of reading, takes place again this year with 20 different books being given out for free across the country by an army of volunteers. Along with the freebies being distributed, there will also be events taking place across Greater Manchester and here’s a look at how you can get involved.
Central Library - Scary Tales Murder Mystery: Into The Words
Can you solve the truth behind a terrible crime committed by one of your favourite fairy tale characters? Central Library will be hosting a murder mystery evening starring theatre company After Dark Entertainment. A murder has been committed in the land of Happy Never After where iconic fairy tale characters aren’t quite as you remember them. Find out who is the killer by interrogating the suspects and finding all of the clues – just don’t fall for the witches’ curse and end up trapped up in the land forever.
Scary Tales Murder Mystery: Into The Words, Central Library, Thursday April 23 6pm-8pm. Free but booking essential. Suitable for over 13s.
Waterstone’s Deansgate - Readover
Ever fancied spending the night in a bookshop? The Waterstone’s branch on Deansgate will be staying open overnight and hosting a Readover which will include quizzes, discussions and board games.
Waterstone’s, 91 Deansgate.
Oldham Library - Reading Hurts: The 'Fifty Shades of Grey' Phenomenon
Love it or loathe it, EL James’ ‘Fifty Shades’ trilogy has been nothing short of a publishing phenomenon. For World Book Night Dr Mari Hughes-Edwards, a Reader in English Literature at Edge Hill University, will provide an insight into the books from a feminist perspective and argue the series is both negative and positive for women, feminism and sexuality in the 21st century.
Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Oldham, Thursday April 23 7pm. Tickets £3.50 library members/£5 non-library members.
Touchstones, Rochdale – Michael Stewart author event
Award-winning author Michael Stewart will be appearing at Touchstones in Rochdale to discuss his latest novel ‘Café Assassin’ and be signing copies. World Book Night books will also be available for distribution.
Michael Stewart, Touchstones, The Esplanade, Rochdale, Thursday April 23 6.30pm. Tickets £2.
Check out Time Out's behind-the-scenes pictures from Central Library and a look at five of Manchester's independent bookshops.