Town Pier, Gravesend

BOOK LAUNCH EVENT: WONDERLAND on Gravesend town pier

An immersive launch event in an iconic local venue celebrating the release of a powerful new YA verse novel, Wonderland.

The afternoon begins with a dynamic presentation featuring a talk and live readings from the book, bringing its world vividly to life. This will be followed by a Q&A with the author, offering insight into the story, inspiration, and creative process.

Set in Colwyn Bay, 1980, the novel follows 16-year-old Tamilola, who struggles to find her place after moving from London — until she discovers a Northern Soul club at the end of the pier. There, amid spinning records, athletic dancers, and fierce rivalries, she begins to find friendship, identity, romance, and a sense of belonging.

After the formal session, the afternoon transforms into a book signing and relaxed reception, complete with mingling, and a live DJ set playing original Northern Soul tracks featured in the novel, inviting guests to dance and celebrate the era that inspired the story.

Praised as:
“Soul stomping, finger clicking, soul so good it hurts.” – Alan H, DJ
“A book you can dance to!” – Luke Palmer
“I read it in one sitting.” – Jo Bowers

A unique hybrid of literature, music, and celebration — bringing the spirit of Northern Soul vividly into the present.