Readings

I give many readings of my own work and the work of others, I have read at numerous festivals and events both in the UK and abroad. I enjoy sharing my work in this way, and enthusing audiences. I try always to include things that I love in my sets such as poems by Pablo Neruda, DH Lawrence, ee cummings, Charlotte Mew, Wilfred Owen and so on. I recently did a 25 date tour for Faber which was based around their top ten poetry books in the hope of turning non poetry readers onto some of the best poetry the UK has produced, and will be doing a few readings in 2008 in a similar vein but drawing on a much wider selection of work that I have chosen personally.

Details of upcoming events are listed on the news page of this site.

If you are interested in booking a reading please get in touch with me directly.

His knowledge and love of poetry shines through.
- Rachel Feldberg (Ilkley Literature Festival)

To be in the presence of such an excellent writer reconnects us with our roots. - Nathan Horowitz (Labyrinth Vienna)

John's work is powerful and moving yet he immediately engages the audience with his natural style and relaxed manner.  His performance is special and thought provoking.  The audience were at times visibly moved, shocked, delighted and entertained, it was wonderful to see their reactions and the wave of different emotions across the room.
- Paula Truman (Morley Literature Festival)