Penguin’s 90th Anniversary Tour Comes to Telford
As part of its national 90th anniversary celebrations, Penguin Books has selected independent bookshop the book-ends to host a flagship regional event for its Nothing Like a Book campaign.
The evening will centre on Bless the Daughter Raised by a Voice in Her Head by Somali-British poet Warsan Shire, whose work has reached global audiences through Beyoncé’s Lemonade. Although Shire will not be present, the event builds on the cultural and emotional force of her work, inviting audiences into an evening of live poetry, music and conversation about what it means to find comfort and clarity in uncertain times.
This event is part of a wider effort to bring meaningful literary moments to places often overlooked by the UK’s arts infrastructure. Following the closure of Beam, Telford’s youth mental health support hub, the town has been left with few restorative cultural spaces. The book-ends aims to help fill that gap. This event offers one evening of creative refuge for young people and anyone searching for connection through the arts. Nothing Like a Book features live performances from three acclaimed UK artists, each offering a creative response to Shire’s work.
Featured Artists
Muco
British-Burundian singer-songwriter weaving soul, folk and ambient textures into narrative-driven songs that speak to belonging and cultural memory.
BREIS
British-Nigerian rapper, poet and educator whose international performances include festivals and school residencies across Europe, Africa and the US. He has shared stages with Angie Stone, The Roots and Tony Allen.
Emma Marie
Acoustic soul artist from Birmingham, known for her stripped-back vocals and storytelling shaped by motherhood and resilience. She is also the founder of @mumdanelife.
Why This Matters in Telford
Telford is one of the UK’s fastest-growing towns, but it also ranks in the top 10 cities for the percentage of residents without formal qualifications (Centre for Cities). It has seen vital services disappear, including the recent closure of Beam, the region’s specialist mental health support service for young people.
This event is not just about books. It is about cultural repair. It offers a space where people can gather, feel seen, and be reminded that literature and music still have the power to soothe, challenge and restore.
“We wanted to host something gentle but honest. Beyond Penguin’s milestone, it’s about creating a moment of calm and care here in Telford,” said Rich Smartt, co-founder of the book-ends.
Event Details Venue:
Gratitude Café, Wellington, Telford
Date: Wednesday 10 July 2025
Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Tickets: £10 general public.
Discounted for members.
Available in-store or via thebook-ends.com
