Stirling launches ‘smallprint’ children’s book festival

Stirling is to host its first children’s book festival featuring award-winning children’s authors, a Harry Potter party and life-sized puppet show.

Organised by Stirling Libraries, ‘smallprint’ will cater for children of all ages and tastes and will run from World Book Day on Thursday, 7 March until Sunday, 10 March.

Author of Gorilla Loves Vanilla, Chae Strathie; CBeebies’ Olobob creator, Leigh Hodgkinson; and top dragon illustrator, Kate Leiper, are some of those signed up to appear in libraries across the area.

Schools will also have a tailored programme of events at smallprint, headed by the likes of Bookbug Picture Book Prize winner and runner-up, Alan Windram and Morag Hood, respectively, and returning author Angela Proctor, who will have her usual offering of witch and wizardry fun.

Convener of the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, Councillor Chris Kane, said: “Reading opens up so many opportunities for children and can help develop literacy skills, so I am thrilled we are staging this fantastic free festival for the first time.

“Smallprint has been designed to have a wide appeal, with a diverse selection of talks, workshops and interactive sessions, while pupils will also be able to get involved through the school programme.

“I am sure the festival will prove to be a great success story, and I would urge any families to bookmark these four days in March and come along to some of these exciting events.”

Cllr Maureen Bennisson: “Smallprint is shaping up to be a magical festival that will capture the imagination of children and hopefully inspire them to become lifelong readers with all the benefits that brings.

“Whether its inspiring talks from top children’s authors and illustrators, a spell-binding Harry Potter themed event or a performance of life-sized puppets, there will be something for every child to enjoy.”

For the full line-up of smallprint events and to book tickets visit:www.culturestirling.org

smallprintStirling Libraries