This year’s Bedford Kite and Motoring Festival, on 21-22 June, hosted the likes of Olaf Falafel (whose picture book Blobfish won the Queen's Knickers Award from The Society Of Authors), Michelle Robinson (who won the Sainsbury's Children's Book Prize with There's A Lion In My Cornflakes), and Bedford’s own David Litchfield (perhaps best known for The Bear And The Piano).
There were also appearances from Julia Jarman, who has had more than 100 books published over a 40-year writing career, and Lou Treleaven, whose books Letter To Pluto and Turns Out I'm An Alien have both been part of the Summer Reading Challenge in UK libraries.
Also appearing were the ever-popular fixtures from Bedford Borough’s regular story-telling events, such as Toby’s Tall Tales with actor and teacher Toby, and our Rhyme Time sessions aimed at children aged 0-5. Plus there was a session of Inclusive Stories, deal for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and including music, props, visuals, hands on experiences as well as sensory moments.
That was alongside the usual festival fun, such as vibrant kite displays, vehicle exhibitions, live music, fun on the river, and hands-on activities for all ages.
We are still keen to hear from you with your ideas, so if you have suggestions for activities or events you would like to see as part of our Year of Reading in 2025 then please contact us at yearofreading@bedford.gov.uk