By Rosie Watson
HENLEAZE High Street was buzzing with excitement at the end of May, when Max Minerva’s bookshop welcomed adored children’s writer Julia Donaldson to celebrate her newest creation, Gozzle.
The author — famous for the Gruffalo — hosted three book-signings of Gozzle, a heartwarming book about family, delighting an audience of children and grown-ups alike.
A total of 45 families attended, and demand was so high that Max Minerva’s sold 85 per cent of their stock — over 100 books — during the event.
Evelyn Heis, assistant manager and events coordinator at Max Minerva’s, said afterwards: “Hosting Julia in our shop was a very surreal but rewarding experience. Julia Donaldson’s books have formed part of so many people’s childhoods, and so it was lovely to see the members of Henleaze’s community that attended our event to tell her just how influential she had been for them, in person.”
“It was my first trip to Max Minerva’s, to see Julia Donaldson, no less,” said Ellen Roberts, one of the day’s visitors. “I think I may have been more excited than the children.
“We managed to have our book signed and time for a chat. The kids enjoyed exploring the great range of books and the staff had tonnes of great suggestions.”
Sarah Ballard, children’s bookseller at Max Minerva’s said: “Julia is a true icon of children’s publishing and a national treasure. It was such a privilege to welcome her to our little corner of Henleaze and to see so many excited customers queuing to meet her.”
A former Children’s Laureate, Julia has authored over 180 works – many alongside illustrator, Axel Sheffler. Illustrated this time by Sara Ogilvie, Julia’s Gozzle is an endearing gosling, who, finding herself lost and hatching outside Bear’s cave, is convinced he is her Daddy. Bear and Gozzle’s journey leads them to discover what home and family truly mean.
Evelyn added: “We here at Max Minerva’s take pride in giving back to the community that supports us, and we hope to bring back other authors to our store in the future.
“Our next event, on 10 July, hosting the Booker and Women’s prize-winning author, Yael Van Der Wouden, is the next one to get excited about.”
More info: maxminervas.co.uk