Barnes Children's Literature Festival 2023 Post Reply

[Annabel (admin)]

Barnes children’s literature festival returns for ninth year as uk’s largest dedicated children’s literature festival. 

Expanded free schools programme to offer 13,000 places for children over 5 venues and 9 days.

 - Festival will headline with events from bestselling authors Sir Lenny Henry; Sir Michael Morpurgo; Cressida Cowell and Dara McAnulty

- Appearances from award-winning illustrators: Axel Scheffler, Lauren Child; Chris Riddell and Lydia Monks

- Award-winning authors M.G. Leonard; Elle McNichol; Hannah Gold; Emma Carroll and Sophie Anderson promise adventure; storytelling; historical facts and writing tips for middle-graders

- Festival branding from ex Waterstones’ Children’s Laureate, Cressida Cowell who is celebrating 20th anniversary of How to Train Your Dragon at Barnes! A rare appearance from Judith Kerr’s daughter, Tacy Knealeas she remembers her mother, with Sir Michael Morpurgo and Lauren Child, to celebrate the 100th birthday of Barnes' beloved resident of over sixty years.

- The London premiere of Borka: The Opera to celebrate sixty years of John Burningham's classic

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[Carol R Leake]

Wow, I'm so thrilled to hear that the Barnes Children's Literature Festival is coming back for its ninth year! It's like a dream come true for all book lovers, especially the little ones.

Just imagine, over 13,000 children will have the chance to attend this festival thanks to the expanded free schools programme. That's incredible! It's heartwarming to know that so many young minds will get to experience the magic of meeting their favorite authors and illustrators.

And let me tell you, the lineup this year is absolutely amazing! We're talking about comedy legend Sir Lenny Henry, master storyteller Sir Michael Morpurgo, the talented Cressida Cowell, and the wonderful Dara McAnulty. I can already feel the excitement building up!

But it doesn't stop there. Award-winning illustrators like Axel Scheffler, Lauren Child, Chris Riddell, and Lydia Monks will be there too, sharing their tips and stories through live drawings. I can only imagine the joy on the faces of the young ones witnessing such creativity firsthand.

One event that really touched my heart is the special celebration of Judith Kerr, who lived and worked in Barnes for over sixty years. Her daughter, Tacy Kneale, along with Sir Michael Morpurgo and Lauren Child, will reminisce about her remarkable life. It's a beautiful way to honor her legacy and the impact she had on children's literature.

And let's not forget the little ones! There will be shows, readings, and activities designed just for them. It's incredible how the festival caters to readers of all ages and interests, making sure that everyone feels included and inspired.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all the organizers and partners, including the University of Roehampton and Waterstones, for making this festival possible. It's evident that their dedication and passion for children's literature have turned Barnes into a hub of creativity and imagination.

I can't wait for the festival to begin and see the smiles on the faces of children and families as they immerse themselves in the world of books. The Barnes Children's Literature Festival is truly a treasure, and I hope it continues to thrive for many more years, spreading the joy of reading to young hearts everywhere.