New children's book festival launched (From Tivyside Advertiser)

New children's book festival launched

4:25pm Thursday 7th March 2013 in News

A new children’s book festival is to be launched in Pembrokeshire, West Wales, attracting favourite authors to a four day festival of young persons literature, it was announced today – World Book Day (7th March 2013).

Bluestone National Park Resort has announced the launch of The Pembrokeshire Children’s Book Fest 2013 as part of an initiative with local group Span Arts that will bring top children’s authors to the resort and the nearby town of Narberth between 30th October and 2nd November (autumn half-term).

The festival of children’s literature is the first of its kind in the region, bringing together an outstanding line-up of some of our best-loved authors – including two former Chldren’s Laureates.

The festival forms part of Bluestone’s work with local communities and organisations and reinforces its “free range” ethos to family fun and relexation.

Pamela Joseph, Commercial Director of Bluestone Wales said: “We wanted to bring together a festival which reflects the very best in Children’s literature today and have a line-up of authors who will entertain and engage everyone from toddlers to parents and grandparents.

“We are delighted to be supporting Span Arts and ensuring the festival is an opportunity for everyone in Pembrokeshire to attend, and there will be a large scale school creative challenge programme to bring the joy of creative writing and great children’s literature to every home in the region. This festival will put Pembrokeshire on the map for great children’s literature events.”

Hearing first hand the inspiration for classic tales is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and all the authors attending this years festival offer an entertaining session for all the family, as well as taking questions from the audiences during talks and book signing.

A full list of all authors will be announced on the festival website which launches later in March.  There are also a selection of Welsh authors attending this first festival including best selling authors Malachy Doyle and Jennifer Sullivan who are well loved for their series of younger children’s books.

Events will be taking place on site at The Pavilion in Bluestone and The Queen’s Hall in Narberth, and will be free to access for guests staying at Bluestone during the festival. Tickets to attend the author sessions at Bluestone and Queens Hall in Narberth are also available in limited supply and will be on sale online within the next two weeks, from the festival website.

Special Children’s Festival breaks will be offered, allowing families the opportunity to attend the festival with their children while enjoying the great all-weather facilities at Bluestone, including the Blue Lagoon water park, Adventure Centre, as well as the luxury lodges, restaurants and free range activities.

Tony Riches of Span Arts, said: “We are particularly pleased to be involved in ensuring the success of the Children’s Book Fest in its first year and look forward to helping it to become a regular Pembrokeshire festival.”