But: Life Isn't Like That, Is It? is a new collection of stories by Boff Whalley, musician, author, and one of the founding members of the anarcho-punk band Chumbawamba and Commoners Choir.

These are stories about real lives, real people, and real life. Stuttering, wayward, disjointed, funny, ridiculous, and unplanned.

We are proud to be able to bring you an event with Pride of Britain Award Winner and inspirational woman, Lindsey Burrow. Lindsey will join us in the Old Woollen for an evening to talk about her first publication Take Care, the life-affirming memoir of the working mother of three young children who has inspired the nation through her selfless commitment to husband Rob Burrow (CBE), the rugby league legend she cared for throughout his heroic battle with motor neurone disease (MND).

We are delighted that Julia Chapman will be joining us in the shop to share the final instalment of her much loved Dales Detective Series, ‘Date with Destiny‘ which is due for publication on 27 March.

From death to danger and malice to mystery, Samson and Delilah have weathered many storms. Finally, things should be going smoothly. Except life’s never that simple in Bruncliffe, is it?

Join award-winning author Hiba Noor Khan as she talks about her powerful middle-grade book, Safiyyah's War. War comes to the streets of Paris and Safiyyah’s life changes for ever. Her best friend’s family have fled, and the bombing makes her afraid to leave the mosque where she lives. But when her father is arrested by the Nazis for his secret Resistance work, it falls to Safiyyah to run the dangerous errands around the city. 

Part of Leeds Storytelling Festival 2025.

To celebrate International Women's Day 2025, we've assembled a panel featuring three of the very best writers around - Naomi Booth, Lara Pawson and Rose Ruane - for a discussion about women in contemporary literature.

This is an amazing opportunity to hear the voices behind some of the best books of the last few years talk about themselves and their work, including discussion about portrayals of women in contemporary literature and sharing their experiences of being women writers in the modern publishing industry. 

Trading titles and explore new stories - welcome to Novel Notions, the first ever book exchange event at Headrow House.

How does it work?

Drop up to 5 books off with us at Headrow House between 11am - 12pm
Collect your tokens 1 book = 1 token
Grab a coffee and a sweet Sunday treat
Come back at 12pm and explore our collection of books

No books? No problem! Pay as you feel, per book, to Leeds Womens' Aid

All unclaimed books will be taken to Charity.

The magic of storytelling unites cultures and generations. And for three weeks, it illuminates our city starting here. From award-winning family theatre and acclaimed author readings to costume-making workshops and a city-wide trail -  this truly is a festival for everyone!