LITERARY EVENTS
This year there's a story for everyone – from picture books to powerful prose
Arundel Festival’s literary programme offers something for every age and reading level — from tiny bookworms
to seasoned bibliophiles.
For Young Readers
This year we’re championing young imaginations with a week of storytelling events and workshops in partnership with
Polly Atkinson and "Children Reading for Life". Plus, budding young authors will see their short stories
published in a special festival book. Come along and meet the authors & Illustrators:
Sally Gardner is a multi-award-winning British author and illustrator known for her diverse range of books, including
historical fiction, young adult novels, and children's stories including the award-winning young adult novel Maggot Moon
and her children's series like Wings & Co. Fairy Detective Agency, and the Magical Children series. Her work spans fairy tales, historical fantasy, and dystopian adventures, all infused with honesty, courage, and magic. Sally's writing shines a light on neurodiversity and resilience. Having taught herself to read only at age fourteen. Whether she’s reimagining fairy folk or rebalancing history in her stories, her books remind us that difference can be a superpower, and that extraordinary
tales often come from unlikely beginnings.
Nick Sharratt is one of Britain’s most celebrated children’s book illustrators and authors, best known for giving
life to over 250 stories including more than 50 books in Jacqueline Wilson’s Tracy Beaker series, which have sold
over 40 million copies in the UK. With a bold, playful illustration style that's instantly recognisable, he’s brought joy to
classics like Shark in the Park, Ketchup on Your Cornflakes?, and You Choose. He's also a proud Gold Blue Peter badge
recipient and former World Book Day illustrator, and continues to inspire both young readers and aspiring artists
with his creative humour and irresistible doodles.
Angela Ackah‑McIntyre is a UK-based children's author of Ghanaian heritage whose debut picture book,
Efua’s Magic Stew, brings West African folklore and imagination to life for young readers. Inspired by the stories
she told her daughters, Angela’s playful tale weaves in Anansi the trickster spider and Ghanaian Adinkra symbols
to deliver themes of empathy, courage, and creativity
Sophy Henn is the Sussex-based author and illustrator who turns picture books into laugh-out-loud adventures.
She first charmed readers with Where Bear?, which was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize in 2015
Now writing in her studio (with a massive cup of tea always at hand), Sophy’s quirky creations—like the reluctant
superhero Pizazz and hilariously grumpy Pom Pom—combine playful storytelling with energetic illustrations.
She’s been celebrated as World Book Day Illustrator in 2015 and 2016, and her books regularly earn praise for
their warmth and humour
For Grown-Ups with a Love of Language
On Sunday 24th August - Two authors. One era. Endless inspiration. Step into the world of wartime fiction with
Annabelle Thorpe and Jacquie Bloese — two brilliant storytellers who bring the past vividly to life.
Annabelle, a former travel journalist turned novelist, is known for her richly drawn characters and evocative landscapes.
Her novels - The people we were before, The Village Trattoria and Moonlight Piazza, often explore love, loyalty and sacrifice against global backdrops, from post-war secrets to modern-day reckonings.
Jacquie, born in Guernsey and now based in Brighton, draws on her Channel Island heritage and historical detail to
craft novels that peel back the personal stories hidden within iconic moments of the 20th century. Her books, like
The French House and The Secret Photographs, capture the complexities of women’s lives during times of upheaval.
Together, they’ll share their creative journeys, talk about weaving fiction from fact, and reveal how wartime settings
continue to resonate with readers today.
Perfect for readers, writers, and history lovers alike — this is storytelling with heart, depth, and a touch of timeless intrigue.
From 15–23 August, Words • Music • Wine returns — a laid-back literary lounge of readings, music, and conversations
with writers and performers who know how to entertain a room. Come for the wit, stay for the wisdom (and maybe the wine).
And for those seeking deeper discussion, head over to our “Fascinating Speakers” section on the website — where you’ll find thought-provoking talks that inform, inspire, and occasionally challenge your perspective.
