Book Launch Success for Chalk Circle Writers
Chalk Circle’s new book of short stories got off to a flying start at its recent launch, when over 60 guests came together to celebrate the publication of Shadows on the Path.
Chalk Circle Writers at Book Launch with Illustrator, John Vernon Lord
Left to right: Celia Berggreen, Jill Thomson, Justine Johnstone, Samanthi Munasing, John Vernon Lord, Yvonne Hennessy, Margiad Eckstein, Danielle Sensier, Stuart Condie
The launch party was held at Ditchling Barn, attended by family, friends, supporters and press; together with our wonderful illustrator, John Vernon Lord.
Guest were entertained by short readings from our stories, the prosecco flowed and the weather was kind, allowing us to spread out onto Ditchling Green to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Most important of all – plenty of books were sold!
Shadows on the Path brings together an eclectic mix of stories from the sinister to the comic, featuring a miscellany of
enigmatic characters – brave, obsessive, tragic, funny – perfectly complemented by the magical drawings of
John Vernon Lord, V&A Illustrator of the Year 2018.
This edition also includes a a Literary Memoriam to contributor and much missed, former member, Judith Bruce and the winning story in the Chalk Circle Short Story Competition 2020 written by London writer, Tom Watling.
Chalk Circle Editor, Danielle Sensier ‘Working together on this project despite individual challenges – not least the recent pandemic – has been a real boost. Not only have we been able to hone our writing skills, but we have all had the satisfaction of sharing our stories with a wider audience. Since joining the group a number of us have completed first novels, gone on to see our work published, or achieved success in international writing competitions.’
It’s not too late to buy a copy of Shadows on the Path for yourself or as a gift. If you know one of the authors get in touch with them personally or you can buy direct from our on-line shop. Copies are also available from selected independent book shops (we love them!) Kemptown Bookshop in Brighton and Skylark Books in Lewes.
A number of Sussex newspapers and magazines are to feature Shadows on the Path in the coming months – especially in the run-up to Christmas 2021 – so keep a look out wherever you get your news.
Praise for Shadows on the Path
‘ A collection of engaging well-crafted stories that resonate long after being read…’
Vanessa Gebbie, Author of Words from a Glass Bubble and Short Circuit
‘A collection . . . of stories . . . to shock and surprise – a tremendous achievement.’
Jon Walter, Author of Close to the Wind, My Name is not Friday and Nevertheless She Persisted
. . .beautiful writing and unforgettable characters. These authors are ones to watch!’’
Anna Burtt, Brighton Book Club
About Chalk Circle
A group of Sussex-based writers, meeting to discuss individual work and to collaborate on joint publishing projects. In 2018 the group published STRATA – Slices through the human landscape, and in 2020, launched the successful Chalk Circle Short Story Competition, attracting hundreds of entries worldwide. Meet the Authors Read Story Snippets
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