Monday, May 28, 2012

The Angel's Share Launch

The day dawned bright and sunny, the invites were sent, the speakers booked, the wine bought... in short, it all had the makings of  a great launch.

Enda Coyle-Greene spoke at length about the book and even made me blush a few times. Noel King said a few words to send it on its way as did Denis Darcy, representing the Arts Office.

And then I read some of the poems: Shackleton's Portable Homeland, a few of the Mallory sonnets, two about the kids, one about the eldest teenager - which of course he hated - and the (by-now-infamous) 'boob' poem, Pair Bond. Actually, Pair Bond has a life of its own at festivals around Ireland, thanks to the Poetry Divas - hey girls! - and a very swish set of accompanying visuals

It all went very well indeed, with many thanks to those who came along - cheers to you all for coming to send it off. And a lovely few relaxing pints afterwards in the lovely venue of the Spirit Store.

Barbara reading: although it looks like she's swallowing ice!

Enda Coyle-Greene who launched Barbara's collection.

Matt, left telling Mary, Emer and Tracy a really funny one!

Poet Michael Farry and Barbara.



Tuesday, May 22, 2012

10... 9... 8... 7...

Today I delivered the wine consignment to the Basement Gallery, where the book launch is due to take place tomorrow. The Angels' Share is just about to be sent out into the wide world for everyone to read. Am I nervous? Yes! The first copy arrived yesterday. I opened the package and held it, this pristine new copy. Such a tiny thing for five years work, and yet... isn't that the great thing about books - a whole world of thought in your hands. All you need do is open the cover and dive in with your mind. See you all on the far side!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Nearly there with The Angels' Share


I've got great news now: the book has gone to print and I'm in the process of sending invitations. The launch date is set for Wednesday 23rd of May, in the Basement Gallery, Dundalk Town Council Offices, Crowe Street, Dundalk @ 6pm. My dear poetry friend and colleague, Enda Coyle-Greene has agreed to launch it for me.

In fact, that's a very busy week for Doghouse Books as two other books are launched too. 


Monday 21st, sees the launch  in Trim, Co. Meath at the Castle Arch Hotel, Trim, Co. Meath.(Time: 8pm) of Asking for Directions, by Michael Farry and then Rus in Urbe, by James Lawless, gets its lift-off in Leixlip, Co. Kildare at the Springfield Hotel on Tuesday 22nd at 7.30pm. 

My book is available to pre-order now, but books won't be sent until launch date.You can order here at Doghouse's website. If you're around Dundalk on the 23rd, consider yourself invited - there's free wine!