Beautiful Little Fools Launch & #PoemsAbout Open Mic

On Tuesday 5 August, you're invited to the online launch of Beautiful Little Fools: a collection that doesn’t just eulogise the women of Gatsby’s world, but challenges the glitter-drenched myths they were written into. This isn’t some soft-focus throwback. It’s a bold interrogation wrapped in language that sings and stings.

We’re pairing the launch with a night that’s fast becoming something of a cult classic: the #PoemsAbout Open Mic. These events are warm, welcoming, and often legendary. International readers, fierce new voices, and the kind of community spirit that can’t be faked. Many writers have read their work aloud for the very first time on this stage, and they’ve come back, stronger and louder.

Expect readings from contributors to the collection, plus an open mic that fills up fast. We’re expecting high demand, and for good reason.

And look, it’s on a Tuesday. Who really has anything better to do on a Tuesday evening?

We aim to run a tight ship, but things happen. The words are good. The vibe is better. So if we overrun, just take it as proof that something real is happening.

Tickets are required. General admission and reader tickets are available at a small cost to help fund the ongoing work of the press. Concession tickets are available for free to those under cost of living duress. If that’s you, take one without hesitation. But please only use this option if you need it so we can keep offering it to others who do.

Every paid ticket helps us keep this thing going. Independent literature needs you.