Mandy Eve-Barnett's Blog for Readers & Writers

This week we have some literary worthy celebrations to honour. Firstly, it is National Library Week – 19th-25th April. I am most fortunate to have the most impressive library where I live. I this in the central hub of the town. The library’s first location was opened in 1977, then a purpose built library was opened in 2010. It is a modern, bright and welcoming space. I host the monthly Writers Circle there and have spent many hours writing and researching my novels there too.

What is your local library like?

I, of course, have to celebrate National Tea Day (in England) on 21st April, as life without tea is unthinkable. Not matter the mood, crisis, or weather, tea is the answer! It will be the first celebration since Her Majesty’s departure and also, coincidentally her birthday. The Queen loved a good cup of tea. Here’s to a good cuppa!

23rd April – Shakespeare’s birthday – all around the globe we celebrate the Bard himself. His stories are timeless and retold year upon year. You may not know but he died on his birthday – not may people do that!

William Shakespeare was a renowned English poet, playwright, and actor born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon. His birthday is most commonly celebrated on 23 April, which is also believed to be the date he died in 1616.

Shakespeare was a prolific writer during the Elizabethan and Jacobean ages of British theater (sometimes called the English Renaissance or the Early Modern Period). Shakespeare’s plays are perhaps his most enduring legacy, but they are not all he wrote. Shakespeare’s poems also remain popular to this day. 

Do you have a favorite Shakespeare play or poem?