Join us for the late afternoon launch of a very special poetry book with an author with close connections to our region.

Juliet Robertson received a diagnosis of Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in 2020. And poetry became an unexpected source of strength, offering an outlet for her to make sense of her terminal illness.

“The poems in Blood Lines tell my story and have helped me to open up difficult conversations with my husband, Mark, as well as my family, friends, and strangers around living with cancer.”

Mark grew up in mid-Nithsdale. And his parents, Juliet’s in-laws, still live in the area.

Juliet intertwines notes, poems, and visuals to create a deeply layered narrative, incorporating humour throughout. The book also boasts stunning illustrations, including visual poems, as well as photographs captured by Mark.

Dependent on the day, Juliet will be interviewed over video link by Tabitha Mudaliar, who will present the event here at Thomas Tosh. Or Tabitha will present pre-recorded interviews of Juliet talking about and reading from her book.

Thomas Tosh’s gallery will also have a specially prepared exhibition of excerpts from Juliet’s book.

The royalties of the book sales will be donated to UK Cancer charities. Donations for the complimentary refreshments are welcome, going to the same charities.