April sees the return of the annual London-wide celebration of reading – Cityread.
To mark Cityread 2017, Barnet Libraries will be hosting events and activities over the coming weeks centred on this year’s chosen novel - S. J. Parris’ ‘Prophecy’.
Prophecy is the second instalment of S. J. Parris’ historical fiction series featuring the fugitive Neopolitan monk and philosopher Giordano Bruno. Set in London in 1583, Prophecy is a gripping Elizabethan spy thriller.
Each year, in April, Cityread London encourages Londoners to come together to read the same book and take part in exciting literary events across the capital.
Last year hundreds of people took part in Barnet Cityread events including talks and reading groups.
Among this year’s events will be the chance to join speaker Will Bird on 12 April at Chipping Barnet library as he looks at the life of advisor to Elizabeth I, John Dee. His talk will give us a fascinating glimpse into Dee’s world of secrets and sorcery.
Residents can also join historian Onyeka, author of ‘Blackamoores: Africans in Tudor England, their Presence, Status and Origins’, at the Phoenix Cinema on 30 April as he examines Shakespeare’s other countrymen and the significance of their story in Tudor England.
There will be an opportunity to discuss the intricacies of Prophecy during a reading group, and for those looking for a challenge there will be a sonnet writing competition with the chance to win a £50 gift voucher.
Residents can reserve a copy of this year’s Cityread book, along with other books in the Giordano Bruno series, or read the book online via Barnet’s Overdrive digital library.
There will also be the chance to pick up a free copy of the book at various locations during Cityread month – keep an eye out for further details online and by checking the Barnet Libraries Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Councillor Reuben Thompstone, Chairman of the Children, Education, Libraries and Safeguarding Committee, said: “There are all sorts of events and activities taking place to mark this year’s Cityread campaign and I would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part.
“Cityread is a great opportunity to celebrate reading and join with the many other Londoners getting involved by reading this year’s book.”