Verve Poetry Press are launching their first two collections in style with a live celebration featuring the craftsmanship of the incredibly talented Amareh Saleh and Casey Bailey. Saleh’s collection I Am Not From Here is a powerful, pertinent exploration of identity as she recounts feeling torn between two tongues. A Birmingham born Muslim woman of Yemen decent, she explains the turmoil of trying to find acceptance in a world so hung up on hate. Bailey’s Adjusted delves into similarly difficult and personal themes, as he contemplates how he has been forced to confront and adapt to injustice within his life. The event features guest readings from Adjei Dsane, Reuben Field, Raza Hussain, Ahlaam Moledina, Hannah Swings, Sophie Wheeler and Afrah Yafai, all of whom have single poems featured in the books. These collections feel heavy with hurt, hate, hope and happiness and will be beautiful experienced live. Tickets are refundable against a purchase of either collection.

Fri 20 Apr 7pm at Waterstones 24-26 High St, Birmingham B4 7SL £5  www.waterstones.com