Barrow book festival sees thousands of children meet award winning authors

BookTastic, a national literacy movement founded by Barrovian Rachael Rogan, returned to Barrow Town Hall for a second year last week. A week long celebration, BookTastic welcomed 13 schools from the local area to meet authors and receive free books.

Over 1,700 pupils took part in the event and went away with free books, including some signed by their favourite authors. Founder Rachael Rogan said she was "honoured to bring world-class children's literature directly to the children who need it most."

Among the guests was Jim Smith, author and illustrator behind the popular Barry Loser books and My Big Fat Smelly Poo Diary. Jim was joined by Patrice Lawrence, award-winning author of Orangeboy, Needle and Eight Pieces of Silva, Onyinye Iwu, author of A Tablet for the King, and Kate Pankhurst, creator of the Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World series.

The event also saw wildlife expert and eco-journalist Sarah Roberts delivering a talk to pupils about her extraordinary career working with wildlife, encouraging children who don't want "an ordinary job" to think about which environment they'd like to work in. Introducing them to careers including palaeontologist, climatologist, marine biologist and more, she touched upon her book Wild Apprentice, which highlights the subjects young people can choose to pursue to achieve their career goals.

Barrow Town Hall was transformed by local artist Hannah Willetts, who created props and photo opportunities for pupils to engage with. Hannah's work helped bring the event to life, creating an inspiring environment that sparked creativity and enthusiasm among the children.

The event once again brought together schools, authors and the local community, making BookTastic a memorable celebration of reading and inspiring the next generation of readers.