THE countdown is on for the second St Austell Festival of Children’s Literature later this month.
The festival, under director Simon Pollard, will run in the centre of the town from June 28 to June 30 and will include more than 25 children’s authors and illustrators.
With an entry fee of £1 for each separate event, the festival, whose patron is best-selling author AF Steadman, aims to encourage everyone to partake in the joy of reading.
The events will be held at various venues, including the White River Cinema, the Unit 4 Studio and pop-up locations.
A spokesperson said: “The festival features a stellar line-up of acclaimed children’s authors and illustrators hosting a range of events for children aged up to 12.
“Highlights include Hannah Gold, Rob Biddulph, Onjali Q Rauf, Jenny McLachlan, Katie Kirby, Jasbinder Bilan, Tola Okogwu, Ed Vere, Sarah McIntyre, Philip Reeve, Clare Helen Welsh, Louie Stowell and Neill Cameron plus many more.
“There’s an exciting range of events on offer for all ages. For the youngest readers, there are magical events about the wonder of storytelling, interactive picture book readings, draw-alongs, a cat disco and an array of fun crafting workshops to excite kids about reading and books.
“For the older children, visiting authors will share their books' inspiration and how they became writers. Children will have a chance to write and share their own stories, draw cartoons and ask questions.
“For graphic novel fans, Neill Cameron will host a comic strip workshop, and a panel of brilliant authors will discuss nature writing and world-building.
“There is something for everyone, from timid bears to brave heroes, schoolgirl friendships to adventurous mice, mega robo bros to tricksy fairies, and mysterious monsters to Norse gods!”
A dedicated schools day, on Friday, June 28, will host events for more than 2,000 pupils. Then two public days will be held on the weekend of June 29 to 30.
The full festival programme is available to view online at www.staustellfestivalofchildrensliterature.com
Tickets are now on sale and can be booked through the Cornish Riviera Box Office, www.crbo.co.uk