The biography of Stockcport-born artist Stephen Reding is now available at Manchester’s historic Portico Library.
HIT: ONCE UPON A FIELD, the biography of Stockport-born artist Stephen Reding, is now available at Manchester’s historic Portico Library.
The debut book by James Walker is now available for members in the temporary lending area of the library.
About the Portico Library
One of Manchester’s longest-running institutions, the Portico Library was established in 1806 and now houses a historic collection of 25,000 books.
The Portico Library… now plays a central role in Manchester’s cultural life and literary heritage. Working with our region’s diverse communities, we explore and confront the city’s complex histories through eclectic and imaginative events, exhibitions, and learning programmes.
The Portico Library
In November 2023, the library was awarded a £453,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to transform the building and preserve its book collection.
“It’s fantastic to hear that Portico Library members can now read HIT: ONCE UPON A FIELD,” said the book’s author, James Walker. “Non-members should keep an eye out for events and workshops so they can take a look inside this historic, Grade II-listed building.”
A hard-hitting tale
HIT: ONCE UPON A FIELD explores the struggles of epilepsy and addiction with a gripping narrative that seamlessly shifts from coming-of-age biography to true crime page-turner.
Part memoir, part biography, HIT documents the life of British artist Stephen Reding and includes 40 original colour paintings that showcase his remarkable talent.
“HIT is a raw and undiluted tale of addiction, recovery, and loss,” said James. “But despite the struggles Stephen faced throughout his life, at its heart, this is a book about family and hope.”
James added: “His story underlines the universal nature of addiction and, more importantly, how it can be overcome.”
Notable achievements
The Portico Library announcement is the latest in a series of notable achievements for HIT: ONCE UPON A FIELD.
After launching in May 2023, the book made the Amazon UK best-seller list across multiple categories. That summer, Stephen Reding’s artwork was featured as part of Didsbury Arts Festival.
Pick up your paperback or ebook copy of HIT: ONCE UPON A FIELD today:
