The Book Makers was a volunteer-run, community pop-up bookshop and learning space where commercially successful writers mentored emerging, underrepresented authors from diverse backgrounds. The Book Makers was granted a cost-only six-month tenancy by Brighton & Hove City Council to utilise vacant premises on Cranbourne Street. The scheme was a partnership between the council and Brilliant Brighton BID.
The Book Makers was open from July to December 2021 and welcomed hundreds of visitors. Local Brighton bookshop Goldsboro Books managed the shop’s stock, and M.D. David Headley, who also runs the DHH Literary Agency, was involved throughout.
The Book Makers held a full programme of workshops, book launches, readings and talks in the space programmed by Creative Future, New Writing South and Writers Mosaic.
"Bookshops have always been about more than just selling books. With The Book Makers, we’re building a space where established authors commit to welcoming new voices into the community of writers. It’s a place where people can learn about the craft — and love -- of writing."
The Book Makers project was supported by a range of authors including Paul Burston, Sharon Duggal, David Fennell, Mick Finlay, Elly Griffiths, Araminta Hall, Kate Harrison, Mick Jackson, Heidi James, Vaseem Khan, Dorothy Koomson, Bethan Roberts, Lesley Thomson, and Laura Wilkinson.
