What to expect...
Join us for a fascinating evening with Jo Bell, poet, archaeologist, author and the UK's first ever Canal Laureate.
Jo has spent many years living and travelling on Britain's inland waterways aboard a narrowboat, giving her a unique perspective on a hidden world that most of us rarely see. Drawing on her experiences, as well as her lifelong fascination with history and archaeology, she brings the canals and their communities vividly to life through stories, humour and remarkable insights.
Her acclaimed book The Boater explores the history, culture and everyday realities of life on the waterways, uncovering tales of industry, adventure and the people who have made the canals their home over the centuries.
Alongside her work as an author and speaker, Jo is also an acclaimed poet whose work has been published widely and performed across the UK and internationally. Her poetry is known for its warmth, humour and keen observation of people and place, often drawing inspiration from the landscapes, waterways and communities she has encountered during her travels. There is every chance that Jo may share some of her poetry with us during the evening, adding another dimension to what promises to be a memorable and entertaining talk.
A gifted speaker and performer, Jo has appeared at literary, arts and history festivals across the country, captivating audiences with her warmth, wit and enthusiasm. We are delighted to welcome her to Parkstone Yacht Club for what promises to be a thoroughly entertaining and thought-provoking evening.
Copies of The Boater will be available to purchase.