In 2010 Manchester twinkled with some of the brightest stars from the world of children's literature. It was all part of the first ever Manchester Children's Book Festival, an event first conceived by Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and organised with Manchester Metropolitan University. For four days the city buzzed with a whole host of events, from author talks to story tellings, competitions and professional developmet. There was, something for children, teachers, writers, librarians or anyone who just likes a good tale.
Each child born be named with love,
For each child's name a star above,
My name be known,
O let my given name be known.
Carol Ann Duffy
After its success it's not surprising that MMU are planning a second event in July 2012. But if the stars twinkled at the inaugral event then Manchester is going to be abalze at this one. The MCBF has grown from just four days to eleven,and with events all over the city, many of which are free, there really is no reason not to join in.
It was launched this February at New Charter Academy. Children from the Academy were joined by pupils from local primary schools to be, entertained, inspired and delighted by Carol Ann who was supported by musician and friend John Sampson.
Kaye Tew and James Draper, the festival directors, believe that the legacy of the festival will be the inspiration it provides to pupils, teachers and the Manchester community to produce the literary pioneers of the the future.
So what have they lined up to inspire us? The programme is so jam packed we suggest you check out their own Festival Programme, but here are some of our personal picks.
Author Events
Michael Rosen
Michael returns to the festival on Saturday 7th July with an three exciting and entertaining events to cover a wide age range.
In the morning he will be Going on an Art Hunt. Manchester Art Gallery is sure to be a very fruitful hunting ground and inspiration will be found round every corner. This interactive event is sure to delight any adventurous child with a love of art, poetry or just life. (7+ recommended).
During the afternoon he will be treating us to afternoon tea at the Midland Hotel. During this relaxed afternoon there will be sandwiches, cake, pastries and poetry as Michael shares his latest poetry anthologies 'Even my Ears are Smiling' and 'Bananas in my Ears'.
From there Michael is hot foot to host his Michael Rosen Family Poetry Show at the Zion Arts Centre. I think we can all be sure that Michael will sleep well after all that!
Michael inspiring children in 2010
Cathy says she loved the 2010 MCBF and so is very excited to be invited back. Possibly not as excited as Manchester is to have her. And forget cloud 9, on July the 1st the author of the divine 'Chocolate Box Girls' series will be taking us to Cloud 23 at the Hilton Hotel for the Northern book launch of her latest novel, 'Summer's Dream'. While there you will be treated to mocktails, a reading by Cathy from 'Summer's Dream' and a question and answer session. You can even opt to stay for dinner in Cathy's company. That sounds like a summer's dream to us.
Our hostess, Cathy Cassidy.
New to MCBF and sure to be a popular event, the author of the phenomenal Dark Materials trilogy (not to mention one af my all time favourites 'Clockwork') is coming to talk about his work past, present and future. Be sure to bring your treasured copies of his work along on the 5th July as he will be happy to sign them for you.
Another MCBF newbie but as Jacqueline is one of the most loved children's authors of the moment then book early for this one. On July the 3rd Jacqueline will talk about her work, how she became a writer and her writing routine. There will also be a limited book signing.
Jacqueline Wilson and Phillip Pullman
Andy is the author of the 'Spy Dog' series. He was one of the most popular author events in the 2010 festival when he brought his 4 legged muse, Lara, along with him.
On the 2nd of July they both return with the new book in the series 'Roller Coaster'. And if that wasn't enough he's also going to tell us all about The Art of being Brilliant too!
Andy and friends.
Workshops
Children will let their imaginations run wild through role play, movement and storytelling at The Royal Exchange Theatre.
The Library Theatre Company in partnership with Cornerhouse present an interactive film-screening of Roald Dahl's 'The Witches.'
Are you sad that World Book Day is over and you no longer have an excuse to dress up as your favourite character? Well Waterstone's Deansgate have the answer. On the 1st of July come along for fun, games and yes fancy dress, at their interactive children's party.
Once Upon a Wartime
11th February-2nd September 2012
Moving tales of loyalty, separation, excitement, survival and identity are brought to life in this major exhibition for children and adults alike. Explore some of the best loved children’s novels about war and the true events that inspired them.
The exhibition includes costume and script from Speilberg's Movie adaptation of 'War Horse'.
'Old Friends New Faces:' Illustrated Characters from Children's Literature
Monday 18th June-Friday 24th August 2012
An exhibition of children’s books from the Children’s Book Collection at Manchester Metropolitan University’s Special Collections will be on display in the Gallery on the third floor of the MMU Library at the All Saints campus.
The Manchester Children’s Book Festival offers a full, two-day suite of masterclass workshops, seminars, talks and panel discussions, giving teachers, writers, librarians and arts practitioners opportunities to develop their own writing-for-children, explore critical engagements with children's books, or get "hands-on"" in arts and craft sessions.
The two days also includes admission to the 'Have you ever thought about writing for children?' and the 'Official Opening Event' with Carol Ann Duffy.
All Write! 2012
A creative writing project for 8-12 year olds.
Midland Future Manchester
What does the future hold for Manchester? If you are between 12-16 years, why don't you show us a a short story.
No comments:
Post a Comment