A great day had by all at Hontion Readers' Day...

80 readers made their way to St Rita's Centre for the Honiton Readers' Day. Having signed up for their workshops and received their (free) copies of books by their chosen authors they were eager to quiz Michael Jecks, Katie Fforde, Simon Halll and Imogen Parker, and hear publishing tips from local writer Maria McCarthy. Six hours later they left, carrying off goody bags of free books and magazines, prizes of book tokens and vouchers to local attractions - and memories of a day they described variously as "Interesting, enjoyable, informative, inspiring, brilliant, entertaining,eye-opening!"

Honiton Readers' Day aim was to inspire readers by introducing new books and writers and to foster a shared love of reading. It was a chance to spend a whole day in the company of fellow enthusiasts and authors, and leave with a goody bag of books, and plenty of inspiration.

AUTHORS AND SPEAKERS

	Katie Fforde: This best-selling romantic novelist is popular across Devon's libraries. Witty and informative about all aspects of writing, Katie claims that most of her experiences end up in her books, as she hates to waste anything!		Simon Hall is already well-known to many as a BBC Crime Correspondent. Simon's first book - a Popular Murder - draws on his knowledge of crime reporting, the media and the Devon countryside where the story is set. The original plot, the well-developed characters, the pace of the action - this looks like the start of a popular new detective series.
	Imogen Parker: As a former literary agent and the acclaimed author of several novels, knows the book business from both sides. Her latest book 'The time of our Lives', was recently publishes to critical acclaim: "a delicious and addictive story of our time", destined to become a classic".		Michael Jecks: Michael gave up a career in the computer industry to concentrate on writing and the study of medieval history, especially that of Devon and Cornwall. As well as writing two books a year, he regularly tours the UK, Europe and America. Each new medieval mystery is eagerly awaited by his many fans.

Maria McCarthy - The Path to Publication Journalist, teacher of creative writing and author of 'The Girls' Guide to Losing Your L-Plates, Maria explains the publication process including getting an agent and publisher, the editing process, how the right cover can make or break a book, publicity and marketing strategies and shares some inside secrets from the book trade. ***** Guy Pringle: Author of newBOOKS - the magazine for readers and reading groups. Guy will share his passion for books and reading and act as host for the day.

AUTHOR WORKSHOPS

	Reading Group with Katie Fforde: Readers' received a free copy of 'Practically Perfect' in advance.		Reading Group with Simon Hall: Readers' received a free copy of 'A Popular Murder' in advance.
	Reading Group with Imogen Parker: Readers' received a free copy of 'The Time of our Lives' in advance.		Reading Group with Michael Jecks: Readers' received a free copy of 'The Death Ship of Dartmouth' in advance.