EYEW and Being Normal launch pics

What is is with Tonto book launches and torrential rain? Two years ago another August downpour threatened to wash out the Wor Al launch, but last night's storm, with lightning flashing across the black sky and striking the construction cranes that tower over Newcastle City Centre, was something else. Thankfully the weather didn't stop well over 100 hardy souls from turning up at Northern Stage to celebrate the launch of Stephen Shieber's Being Normal and Rosalind Wyllie's Everything You Ever Wanted.

Stephen, Roz and Beccy
The event was presented by New Writing North and compered by NWN's Claire Malcolm. The evening began with music from Newcastle's own Beccy Owen. Then actors Laura Norton and Vicky Elliot read excerpts from Everything You Ever Wanted, and Laura read from Being Normal. Roz and Stephen gave quick thank you speeches, there was a raffle(!) and then Beccy returned to the stage with more music.

Stephen and Roz sign copies of their books
Both authors then signed copies of their books for a queue of people that at one point stretched right across the room. Among those in attendance were Roz's mentor Caroline Smailes, plus forthcoming Tonto authors Nik Jones and Sarah Shaw. At this point I should say that the venue's moody stage lighting meant our photos are a bit rubbish. That's my excuse anyway.

Beccy, Laura and Vicky on stage
Thanks to both Stephen and Ros, Claire and New Writing North, Beccy (visit her MySpace), Laura and Vicky. Thanks also to Jill and Caroline for helping with book sales (again!). And thanks to everyone who turned up, despite the summer weather.

That signing queue in full...
Both Everything You Ever Wanted and Being Normal are available now from all good book shops, and if you're quick you can get both for £10 from our online shop. If you'd like to get signed copies, this Saturday (23 August) Stephen will be at Borders Silverlink from 12 noon, and Rosalind will be at Borders Gateshead from 1pm.

Paul