Join former UK Canal Laureate, Jo Bell, for an interesting talk about her career, life and her love of canals: Step aboard Boater, a mesmerising voyage along the tranquil waterways of England.
‘It’s not a lifestyle. It’s a life’.
For over twenty years, Jo Bell, archaeologist and poet, has travelled the waterways of England, meeting extraordinary people in an extraordinary environment. The canals and rivers have taught her about human nature, including her own; about rope and Brasso and bravery; about ducks and locks, and above all, about the necessity for a constant supply of biscuits. In this smart, funny memoir, she describes an alternative nation within a nation, a place of different maps and deep history, and home to people who live and work in a world quite separate from the land.
Always at home, always on the move, Jo’s peaceful life is interrupted when a turbulent relationship takes her on a year-long odyssey through tranquil waters and on to the treacherous Bristol Channel. Join her as she navigates shallow waters and deep trouble, and welcomes readers onboard a remarkable voyage through the past, present and future of our remarkable canals and the communities they support.
Archaeologist, poet and boat-dweller Jo Bell is the author of several award-winning books, including poetry collections Navigation and Kith, two cult-classic poetry handbooks and (with Tania Hershman and Ailsa Holland) the history almanack, On This Day She.
Tickets available from Leo’s Pet Supplies, Oundle (cash only) or online.