Reading groups in the North-east can apply for free copies of Debbie Taylor’s new novel Hungry Ghosts to be published by Michael Joseph next month, plus half-price tickets to the launch event in Newcastle on April 27. Taylor (who is also the editor of Mslexia magazine) is willing to meet groups and discuss the novel. If your reading group would like to take part email holly@new writingnorth.com or call 0191 488 8580 by February 24. Meanwhile, ask for a copy of New Writing North’s imaginative and stylish annual report, which not only celebrates a year of exciting work with schools, writers, readers and audiences, but comes with a loose dustjacket that folds out to reveal a specially commissioned short story, “Scarf Man” by Margaret Wilkinson.