Shetland, 12-13 September 2003

THIS YEAR’S book festival, the second organised by the Shetland Arts Trust, was a remarkable success with over 3000 people attending readings, workshops and signings, with music and film also being incorporated.

The festival ran over two days (12-13 September), and included visits by best selling crime author Ian Rankin, historical novelist Simon Scarrow, short story writer Brian McCabe, and poet Dorothea Smartt. They were were joined by Vivian French, Chris Fisher and Catherine McPhail, three writers and illustrators specialising in work for children.

Tom Morton, local broadcaster and journalist, launched his new book at the Clickimin Centre on Saturday, and a Shetland night was held at the Shetland Hotel with local poets Robert Alan Jamieson and Christine de Luca.

Wendy Weatherby and friends provided music on ‘cellos with voice, showcasing the poetry of Pethshire writer William Souter.

It was also the end of the writer’s residency for Raman Mundair, who left Shetland after the festival. “It was marvellous and it is exactly what Shetland needs,” Mundair said. “I am proud of it, and it certainly surpassed last year’s festival.”

Her personal highlight was the launch on Friday of People Make Place, an anthology of writing by young Shetlanders, which came from her residency working with children in schools.

© Andy Ross, 2003