We are delighted that the highly acclaimed author Michael Morpurgo (Warhorse, Why the Whales Came, The Butterfly Lion) is coming to the gallery this summer to talk about his new book 'Muck and Magic'. Signed copies of the book will be available to purchase. If you wish to book supper in teh Mess Restaurant for after the talk email themess@messumswiltshire.com or phone 01747 445042.

'Muck & Magic' is an inspiring and empowering story about a girl who discovers a hidden talent. A contemporary countryside tale about the power of friendship and creativity, from the nation's favourite children's author and beautifully illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill (J. K. Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them). Bonny has always wanted to be a top cyclist, maybe even a future Olympic champion. But her world changes after meeting a sculptor named Lizzie, who is inspired by Elisabeth Frink, a great friend of Michael's.

Michael Morpurgo has an unparalleled reputation as a children's storyteller. He was Children's Laureate from 2003 to 2005, has written over 100 books and is the winner of many awards, including the Whitbread Children's Book Award, the Smarties Book Prize, the Blue Peter Award and the Red House Children's Book Award. His books are translated and read around the world and his hugely popular novel War Horse is now both a critically acclaimed stage play and a highly successful film.