THE Bookery, in partnership with Sustainable Crediton, is proud to present an evening with Dr Michael J. Warren in conversation with Guy Shrubsole at 7pm on Thursday, November 13.

Join us for a captivating evening exploring the deep connections between birds, place, and the stories we tell about the natural world. Michael J. Warren will discuss his new book, “The Cuckoo’s Lea: The Forgotten History of Birds and Place”, in conversation with environmental campaigner and author Guy Shrubsole. A key focus in their discussion will be the birds and places Michael encounters in Devon through his family connections to the county.

“The spellbinding story of place told through Britain’s bird place names”, The Cuckoo’s Lea uncovers the hidden bird origins of British place names, weaving together early literature, history, and ornithology to reveal how birds have shaped our landscapes, language, and imaginations. This lyrical and timely book is a call to notice, cherish, and protect the nature embedded in our past and present.

Dr Michael J. Warren is a writer, medievalist and naturalist. He teaches English in Chelmsford and is a trustee of Curlew Action. He curates The Birds and Place Project (www.birdsandplace.co.uk), a website collecting all bird-related English place names and has been a leading voice in the New Networks for Nature movement.

Guy Shrubsole is an environmental campaigner and author of The Lie of the Land (2024), The Lost Rainforests of Britain (2022)—winner of the Wainwright Prize for writing on conservation—and Who Owns England? (2019).

The evening will include an audience Q and A, with both Michael and Guy answering questions. Michael will be signing copies of The Cuckoo’s Lea, and Guy will be signing a selection of his books.

Tickets cost £5 or a book and a ticket £20, available from The Bookery or online by visiting: www.thebookery.org.uk.