Poetry & Music and a Tinsel Street Update

Karin Kamar

 I'm staggered and on a second high, but I'll come to that shortly.

Out-Spoken

On 27th November I went along to another Out-Spoken event. This time it was back in its usual place, the Purcell Room. I had no idea who the poets or musicians were, but that's part of the fun. There is usually a surprise.

The first poet was Haia Mohammed from Gaza. Oh my, what a story she related of her life in Gaza, and when she read her poetry, you could have heard a pin drop. She moved people to tears, and she received a standing ovation. The room was filled with chants of Free Palestine. Wow, amazing. I bought her book.

Haia Mohammed

Other poets included Ozifa Benson and Luke Kennard. I really liked Luke's poetry. Using the story of Jonah and the Whale, but updated, this was a witty rendition of different parts of the story. I might have to check his poetry out. He's won lots of prizes, yet I'd never heard of him.

Ozifa Benson

Luke Kennard

Shanteh

Musicians were Karim Kamar (classical pianist who I've seen a few times there), Jared Nandra who played boogie-woogie and Shanteh, whose loop pedal I was fascinated with.

So an interesting evening.

Tinsel Street

I seem to have started a fad. Most people who have bought my book (people I met) began reading in on 28th November when the book starts. All the chapters start on a date. I've been told by various people that they are hooked and can't wait to see what happens to the characters. That is so pleasing. When you send a book (or any writing) out into the world, you never know how it will be received. Will they get you and what you are saying? Will they like the characters? Which ones will they prefer? Tinsel Street is my baby. I spent five years on it, and I love my characters. They have become my friends, and I would quite like to know what happens to them next. So, there may well be a sequel.  When is another matter. I've neglected other parts of my writing this year to get the 'Lawnmower' book and Tinsel Street published, but it has been worth it.

I found out yesterday that I have sold 75% of the print run of Tinsel Street! I cannot believe it. My goals are always low. I prefer it that way, so I am gobsmacked that this has happened. People are saying lovely things (please say them in reviews!) and the new box of books I ordered has diminished, and I think I shall be left with three spares. 

A new box of books arrives

My penfriend in Switzerland who works in a book shop (she is also a crime writer), has asked her colleague if she would order one of my books for the English table. She's ordered three!

I have a quote up on Troubador's website about my experience with them as my publisher. They have been great and so supportive.

I was given a few gifts at my book launch by friends. Each one was beautiful, lovely flowers, beautiful words and a bag that made me laugh out loud. Thanks. You've all been fantastic.

It's not too late to buy a book while stocks last! But out of all this, it is so nice to know people like my stories. This was always my aim. I've never sought big money (ha, likely chance anyway). I only ever wanted to share my stories with people and for them to take them to heart. I'm never going to be a bestseller writer, but I don't care. Small goals!