New episode of A Shared Reading Podcast

Derby Book Festival’s much-loved Shared Reading community programme debuts a new podcast and invites submissions from local writers and prospective guests.

Derby Book Festival’s Shared Reading community programme has released a new episode of A Shared Reading Podcast, a series celebrating the joy of reading and the conversations it sparks. Hosted by Shared Reading volunteers, Ellie and Steve, the podcast brings together local voices from across Derby and the East Midlands, inviting listeners to pause, reflect, and feel part of something shared.

The latest episode explores the theme of Colour and features two guests: Peter Little, a Shared Reading participant and Cullen Marshall, a local poet. Cullen wrote two brand new poems especially for the episode which are read and explored in a mini Shared Reading style discussion which emulates the kind of open, reflective conversation you’ll see in our groups.

“In our Shared Reading groups, we see how reading short pieces of writing together can open up honest, generous conversations,” said Katie Orman, Shared Reading Project Co-ordinator. 

“This episode captures that atmosphere beautifully with two original poems written for the theme, and a really warm participant perspective on what Shared Reading means in everyday life.”

The Shared Reading team plans to record and release further episodes over the coming months and are actively seeking sponsorship to help sustain the series. 

Call for submissions and guests

We are now inviting short pieces of writing - poems, flash fiction, micro-memoir, or reflective prose that work well when read aloud (typically brief pieces). Selected contributors may be invited to join an episode to discuss their work, or to have their piece read by a host or guest reader.

• Submit your work/express interest as a guest here
• Listen to the podcast here
• General enquiries email: shared.reading@derbybookfestival.co.uk 

“We’d especially love to feature Shared Reading participants, Shared Reading volunteers, local writers and community voices from the East Midlands” said Katie Orman, Shared Reading Project Coordinator.

“If you know someone who has a short piece of writing or a story to tell, or if that person is you, please get in touch.”

• Join a Shared Reading session near you, find out more here
• Volunteer with us, find out more and register your interest here
• Sign up to our Shared Reading newsletter here