A Day of Stories for Families – 10 October
Hugh Bonneville and Kate Rolfe headline free family day celebrating children’s books
Families are invited to be ‘Spellbound by Books’ this autumn, as First Light Festival announces a brand-new, free children’s book day taking place on Saturday 10th October at East Point Pavilion in Lowestoft.
Spellbound by Books – A Day of Stories for Families will bring storytelling, live readings and hands-on activities to East Point Pavilion from 9.30am to 4pm, with something for children of all ages throughout the day.
Leading the celebrations will be actor Hugh Bonneville (Paddington, Downton Abbey) reading from his new children’s book Rory Sparkes and the Spy who Loved Tea, alongside award-winning storyteller Kate Rolfe of Wiggling Words, who will open the day with a trio of stories for younger children. Further authors are set to join the line-up for the festival’s family sessions, with details to be announced soon.
Best of all — the entire day is completely free for families to attend!
What’s On
The day will unfold in two halves. The morning is designed for little ones (aged 3-7), with a run of stories from author and illustrator Kate Rolfe paired with a suite of activities for younger children. From midday, the programme shifts up a gear for older children, with talks and activities to suit ages 7-11, including workshops and talks from author and illustrator Matt Robertson (Bodytopia), author and cartoonist Dave Shelton and author Anna Fargher (The Umbrella Mouse). At 3pm, Hugh Bonneville will be reading is latest book, Rory Sparkes and the Spy who Loved Tea (please note the talk from Hugh Bonneville is SOLD OUT),
A unique opportunity to hear one of the UK’s most-loved actors and authors.
10am to 12pm – Kate Rolfe
Live readings from books- Wiggling Words, Wolf and Bea and Owl and Moon. Afterwards join in with Wiggling Words crown making, moustache making and glasses making. (Suggested age 3+).
12-1pm – Matt Robertson
Live readings from books Bodytopia, There’s Nothing Funny about Bums, Brain Hat and Body Silhouette, followed by an interactive draw-along. (Suggested age 7+).
1pm – Dave Shelton
Live readings from Monster in the Woods, and others. Afterwards join in with a fun Comic strip workshop. (Suggested age 7+).
2pm – Anna Fargher
Live readings from books- Umbrella Mouse and Umbrella Mouse to the Rescue. (Suggested age 5+).
3pm – Hugh Bonneville
Actor and author Hugh Bonneville reads from his latest book Rory Sparkes and the Spy who Loved Tea, followed by a Q&A and interview led by Anna Fargher. This is a ticketed event which is SOLD OUT.
Throughout the day, families can also enjoy:
- National Literacy Trust’s ‘Take 10 to Read’
- Face painting – transform into your favourite character
- Photo booth — with a specially made “Be Spellbound by Books” picture frame for family snaps
- Wishing Tree — For children to hang their own spells and wishes among the branches
- Themed drinks and snacks will be available from the East Point Pavilion bar.
With thanks to Sizewell C, East Suffolk Council and National Literacy Trust for their support of Spellbound by Books.
