The Storm Cloud - Frances Stickley
2026-07-11 11:00 - 12:00 UTC | Newark Library Children’s Area, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW
Listen to the story of The Storm Cloud, read by children’s book author Frances Stickley, before having some fun with arts and crafts to make your own Storm Cloud dreamcatcher to take home and finish.
Perfect for children aged 5+, join us for a free family-friendly event as part of Newark Book Festival in the children’s section of Newark Library. No need to book! Just turn up for the start time to catch the start of the story.

Cancer Works - Alex Kinnear-Mellor
2026-07-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Gannets Bistro, Gannets Bistro, 35 Castle Gate, Newark, NG24 1AZ, United Kingdom
How do you balance a career with not dying? Join Alex Kinnear-Mellor in a refreshingly real and unexpectedly uplifting conversation about cancer.
In a world where cancer diagnoses are increasingly common among the working-age population, Alex Kinnear-Mellor delivers an unconventional yet profoundly necessary narrative. ‘Cancer Works’ is not just a book; it’s a lifeline for anyone seeking to balance the colossal weight of cancer with the demands of their career.
With heartfelt honesty, wit, and unflinching courage, Alex shares her journey through cancer treatments while keeping her career afloat. This book challenges the traditional narratives surrounding cancer, offering insights, advice, and practical tips on how to navigate the treacherous waters of working life during
and after a cancer diagnosis.
Enjoy a short reading of Alex’s book Cancer Works: Balancing your career with not dying, followed by an informal “ask me anything” discussion, where no question is off limits, from the practical to the deeply personal. A relaxed, no-judgement space to explore the realities of cancer in a way we rarely get to, and with delicious coffee and cake.
Please note that while we strive to be inclusive and accessible to all, unfortunately, this venue does not have step-free access.

I really want to be a cat
2026-07-12 10:30 - 11:30 | Palace Theatre, Palace Theatre, Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Have you ever wanted to be a cat? Helen has, and she wrote a book about why. Join her as she reads the book, and then you will get to create your very own book about what animal you would love to be.

Maybe you want to be a cat too, or maybe an elephant is more your thing. Join Helen to get your creativity flowing.

This event is perfect for children aged 3 years + and their parents.

Pilgrim Cello
2026-07-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Pilgrim Cello is a unique account of a unique journey. Travelling with his cello strapped to the front of a heavy cargo bike, Kenneth Wilson pedals 1,900 miles on a pilgrimage to all forty-two English cathedrals.
In these sacred and historic buildings, Kenneth unpacks his cello and fills the holy place with the solo music of Bach. He’s offering a Meditation on the last hours and the last words of Christ. His performance of music and poetry connects with people, with ancient stones, with history and humanity, and – perhaps obliquely – with the faith he once had but no longer has.
Join him, and enjoy the ride!
‘Elegiac, thoughtful, and filled with warmth. I loved following his extraordinary journey.’ Ava Glass, author of Alias Emma and The Traitor.
