A BEST-SELLING children’s author says she is looking forward to meeting fans again at an event in St Austell.

AF Steadman, the author of the Skandar series and the patron of the St Austell Festival of Children’s Literature, will be back in the town on Sunday, October 27.

The author was a big hit at the second festival of children’s literature earlier this year, with fans queueing out of the door at a book signing session.

Speaking about the school half-term holiday event, AF Steadman said: “I look forward to meeting Skandar fans and new readers. Seeing young people getting excited about books is one of the most enjoyable aspects of being a children’s writer and I am thrilled to be back in St Austell, helping to spread the joy of reading.”

The event, An Audience with AF Steadman, is being held at St John’s Methodist Church. The author will be talking to readers and signing copies of Skandar and the Skeleton Curse, the fourth book in the series.

The family event, organised by the festival of children’s literature team, aims to help reignite the joy of reading for pleasure in children and raise funds towards the festival returning for its third run in 2025.

A spokesperson said: “Readers will hear all about the exciting new book and have the chance to ask AF Steadman questions about the Skandar series and what it’s like being a published author.

“Doors will open at 3pm when there will be face-painting, elemental treats and drinks, plus Skandar-themed activities and games. The audience is invited to wear elemental green to celebrate this book and join in the fun. AF Steadman will be on at 5pm.”

Festival director Simon Pollard said: “We are excited to bring AF Steadman to St Austell for a very special fundraising event.

“As our festival patron, AF Steadman is supporting our key principles of sharing the joy of reading for pleasure with as many families as possible and bringing people together in the town as a community that shares a love of books.”

Tickets cost £5 and can be ordered via https://wherereadingrocks.com/event/an-audience-with-af-steadman-by-st-austell-festival-of-childrens-literature