We are excited to welcome Sally Coulthard back to Pickering Book Tree to discuss her fascinating new book, A Brief History of the Coast in 100 Objects, which offers a wealth of insight into the often surprising objects connected to the coast and the people who live and work there.

Sally has authored more than thirty non-fiction books spanning a wonderful range of interests including nature writing, social history, folklore, and anthropology — always brilliantly researched, engaging, and informed by an immersion in the subjects she writes about through her own rural life in her Yorkshire smallholding.

We’ll chat with Sally about the book, her writing, research and inspiration. There’ll also be a chance to ask your questions and Sally will sign copies of the book at the end of the evening.

The shop door will be open from 7pm with complementary drinks available on arrival until the event starts at 7.30pm.

The event is free to attend, but booking is essential. Please contact the shop or use the form below to reserve your seats.

We look forward to seeing you there!

About the Book

A genuine delight, this richly woven tale of our maritime nation is as crafted as the objects it highlights. I’ve loved every page, and learnt and laughed along the way — Jules Hudson

An immersive history of our coasts and the people who have shaped them

The coast means something different to everyone.

It’s a place of pleasure and reckless pursuits, of fishing, fearless endeavours and a crashing, rugged beauty. The coast is, and always has been, our first line of defence and our springboard to other cultures.

Through the lens of 100 carefully selected objects, this treasure chest of a book delves into the myriad ways our coastlines have shaped, and been shaped by, our history, culture, and identity. From Roman lighthouses to rosary beads, knitted jumpers to Viking slave shackles, each object serves as a portal to a unique story.

Sally Coulthard’s engaging narrative goes far beyond the traditional seaside holiday to illuminate the coast’s role as a first line of defence, a site of trade, and a catalyst for cultural exchange. Readers will discover how the coast has influenced our beliefs, economy, and even our domestic lives. And, looking out to sea, this book will show how Britain’s story is anchored to those of our European neighbours and of faraway lands.

From one of Britain’s finest historians of material culture, this book vividly captures the enduring magic and significance of our shores. Whether it’s smugglers’ underpants or sailor’s hoaxes, whale vomit or pickled puffin – it all washes up on the British coast…

A rich, perfect jigsaw of 100 genuinely fascinating pieces, building a deep and wide picture of Britain’s history through its salty edges. Prehistoric harpoons, slave shackles and a Pepysian fake nose all contribute to this superbly researched, lively tale of our islands. Enriching, engaging and a pleasure to read — Jo Bell

About the Author

Bestselling author and columnist Sally Coulthard has spent the last two decades writing about her favourite things – nature, history, and craft. Many of her books delve into the traditions of rural life – from artisans to agriculture – the people, plants, and creatures who make the countryside tick.

Sally’s work often weaves together different disciplines, pulling threads from social history, anthropology, archaeology, design, and nature writing to bring her diverse subjects to life.