UNIVERSITY NEWS LAST UPDATED : 04 NOVEMBER 2013
Families and fans of children's literature are invited to attend the Festival of Children's Literature on Saturday 9 November, hosted by Birmingham Conservatoire.
Celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Federation of Children's Book Groups (FCBG), the one-day festival will focus on children's stories in the arts and explore the connections between children's literature, music, theatre, film and puppetry.
The day will consist of a series of exciting workshops and performances as well as free storytelling and opportunities to meet award-winning children's authors and illustrators.
Best-known for his novels 'Private Peaceful' and 'War Horse', Children's Laureate 2003-2005 Michael Morpurgo will be discussing his latest collaboration with illustrator Emma Chichester Clark.
James Mayhew, known for his 'Katie and Ella Bella Ballerina' books which explore fine art and ballet, will be running a fascinating workshop for children, set to include a live music performance of Britten's 'The Sword in the Stone' by students at Birmingham Conservatoire, part of Birmingham City University.
Other sessions at the day-long event will include a mini puppet toy theatre workshop with illustrator Clara Vulliamy and a celebration of 'Skellig' with children's author David Almond, winner of the international Hans Christian Anderson Award and the Carnegie Medal.
The day is also in celebration of the FCBG receiving the Eleanor Farjeon Award, which recognises outstanding contribution to the world of children's books by an individuals and organisations.
The event runs from 9.45am until 4pm on Saturday 9 November at Birmingham Conservatoire.