Literature lovers can head down to Blackwell’s bookshop this Saturday for the Portsmouth launch of Read Rees, the long-awaited new book by local author Gareth Rees.

Read Rees contains stories of war, theology, blackberry crumble and the oppression of cleaning staff. ‘Forty years’ wanderlust, menial labour and mindful rebellion.’

A graduate of the University of Portsmouth (UoP), Gareth has written for The Guardian, The Contemporary Review and the award-winning No Such Thing as a Free Ride? series of travel anthologies.

Read Rees is published by 137 Albion Road Books, a project involving another UoP alumnus, the photographer and writer Alexander Sebley, and Tom Sykes, Lecturer in Creative Writing at UoP and regular contributor to the New African magazine.

At the launch there will be readings plus a Q&A with Gareth. Copies of the book will be on sale priced £6.

Summery snacks and drinks will be served.

The launch is in association with the School of Media and Performing Arts at the University of Portsmouth.

7pm, 2nd August, Blackwell’s bookshop, Cambridge Road, Portsmouth.

Writer Gareth Rees