13 Cornish Ghost Stories: A Falmouth Book Festival Event
Written by Verity Borras
On Wednesday 16th October, The Poly hosted a suitably spooky Falmouth Book Festival event for the time of year. Keith Wallis, host of ‘The Piskie Trap’ podcast, spoke to authors Emily Barr, Liz Fenwick, Emma Cowell and Marie Macneill about their contributions to the 13 Cornish Ghost Stories anthology.
The event was well attended which came as no surprise as the anthology is well known in Falmouth after being published by Falmouth Bookseller’s own publishing company, Mabecron Books. People were eager to hear the origins of the stories and the processes of writing them, and the contributors did not disappoint. Each author spoke in detail about their process and inspiration, from personal ghost encounters to historical figures from around Cornwall.
With different corners of Cornwall used as a backdrop for the thirteen stories, the authors and editors have created range in this anthology that tells stories not only of forgotten figures, but of Cornwall as a centre for folklore and ghouls. Each gave a short reading from their story to give the audience an idea of what to expect from the full collection.
From stories harking back to centuries past to ghosts causing mischief in the present day, the authors spoke about the ghost story as a fluid medium and emphasised how there were no restrictions in the brief they were given. The enthusiasm with which each contributor spoke about their short story was contagious and speaks to the fun and freedom each must have had while writing.
Macneill, who co-edited the collection with Dr Jo Parsons, spoke about the process of both editing and writing, as well as distribution through Mabecron Books. This was a great insight into the world of publishing for those who are interested in that side of the industry.
Other contributors to the anthology held seats in the audience and were invited up to the front at the end of the event. The book was available to purchase and all the authors in attendance were happy to sign copies for members of the audience as a souvenir from the evening.
13 Cornish Ghost Stories is available in Falmouth Bookseller and all major book retailers.