Is your child eager to meet their favourite author, illustrator, or TV presenter?
Look no further! This summer, Wild Wonder at Westonbirt, the nature-inspired book festival, is making a highly anticipated comeback at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum.
From September 15th to 17th, the stage will come alive with some of the biggest names in children’s literature, sharing their captivating stories set in and around nature. The festival offers a diverse range of activities, including storytelling sessions, drawing lessons, guided walks through the arboretum, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Prepare to be enthralled by the remarkable lineup of authors this year. Jacqueline Wilson, the beloved creator of characters like Tracey Beaker and Hetty Feather, will grace the stage alongside Laura James, the imaginative mind behind Captain Pug and Fabio – The World’s Greatest Flamingo Detective, and Conor Busutti, the author of Billy Conker.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Anna Terreros-Martin, author and illustrator of The Friendly Mammoth, will host family workshops and readings, immersing young minds in the world of nature-inspired tales. The Brothers McLeod, the talented author and illustrator duo behind the Knight Sir Louis book series, will also be there to captivate the audience.
Joining these literary luminaries are outstanding and bestselling illustrators, including the award-winning Yuval Zommer and the talented Guy Parker-Rees, known for his enchanting books like Giraffes Can’t Dance.
This year, Wild Wonder welcomes new additions to the lineup. TV presenter and wildlife expert Philippa Forrester will share enthralling stories of nature’s incredible journeys, while TV scientist Ben Garrod explores the fascinating world of dinosaur predators. BBC filmmaker and author Justin Anderson will take the audience on a journey into the realm of Narwhals, the majestic unicorns of the sea. Additionally, participants will have the chance to indulge in model-making fun with beloved Aardman characters Shaun, Gromit & Morph, led by expert model maker Jim Parkyn.
But that’s not all! Prepare for delightful story time sessions and appearances by the beloved Gruffalo character.
This enchanting and family-oriented book festival is hosted by Forestry England and Events of Wonder, in association with Waterstones Booksellers, and sponsored by Kingswood School Bath, Westonbirt School, and Norland Nannies.
Gill and John McLay, from Events of Wonder, express their delight, saying, “Westonbirt is the perfect setting for a children’s book festival. The Arboretum’s fantastic forest location, coupled with the brilliant buildings, creates a truly special experience. With a lineup of favorite authors and amazing illustrators, this summer event is unmissable. We’re thrilled to be back!”
Don’t miss out on this incredible literary celebration where the joy of reading meets the wonders of nature. Ticket prices include free entry to the arboretum.
Tickets for Wild Wonder at Westonbirt Children’s Book Festival are available now. For booking information, the full event schedule, and workshop details, visit https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/wild-wonder.
