Newark Book Festival

En Plein Aire - Paint Club with Urban Canvas
2025-07-13 10:00 - 15:00 UTC | Newark Market Place, Newark Royal Market, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Paint what you see and explore the joy of creating art in the open air—just like the French Impressionists! Materials provided, no experience needed. Just drop in and get creative.

Pleasantly Disturbed - Interview with Lee Stuart Evans
2025-07-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Join Newark Book Festival for an unmissable event as top TV comedy writer Lee Stuart Evans sits down with author and interviewer Nick Quantrill to talk about his hilarious and heartfelt new novel, Pleasantly Disturbed an hilarious 1980s Nottinghamshire-set novel full of music, mystery, and heart.
With a comedy career spanning shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, The Jonathan Ross Show, and I’m A Celebrity…, Lee brings his trademark wit and warmth to the page in a story packed with big laughs, unforgettable characters, and a killer soundtrack.
Set in the late 1980s, Pleasantly Disturbed follows Robin—a Simple Minds-obsessed dreamer with zero musical talent—and Fliss, a brilliant but shy musical prodigy. When they’re drawn into a bizarre mystery involving fast cars, a derelict railway yard, and a murder in the middle of Sherwood Forest, the result is part comedy caper, part coming-of-age, and entirely feel-good fiction.
Expect a lively, laugh-out-loud conversation about writing for comedy legends, growing up in the East Midlands, and the joys of 80s nostalgia—plus a few behind-the-scenes tales from TV and publishing.
Described by Patrick Kielty as “alive and kicking with big laughs and an even bigger heart,” Pleasantly Disturbed is fast becoming a festival favourite. Stick around after the talk for a book signing and a chance to meet the man behind the mayhem!

Creative Battle: Stories, Stitches & Sketches
2025-07-12 14:30 - 15:30 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Four bold creatives. One stage. Endless inspiration.
Creative Battle brings together a dynamic panel of artists from across the creative spectrum—each with a unique approach to storytelling, design, and imagination—for a lively and insightful on-stage showdown. Expect friendly rivalry, candid discussion, and plenty of laughter as they debate the meaning of creativity, where ideas come from, and what it really takes to bring a vision to life.
On the panel:
Chris Shepherd, writer, artist, filmmaker, and British comedy legend, is known for his award-winning short films, animated collaborations, and debut graphic novel Anfield—a visual journey into memory, identity, and Liverpool culture.
Gillie Ford, beloved contestant from The Great British Sewing Bee, stitches stories into every design, bringing creativity to life through colour, fabric, and flair. Her fashion-forward perspective on craft is both expressive and empowering.
Eleanor Tomlinson, the illustrator behind the viral “Jubilee Ma’amalade Tea” artwork, channels the beauty of the Yorkshire countryside into her heartwarming and globally celebrated illustrations. From wildlife to royalty, Eleanor’s work brings charm and storytelling to every image.
Lucy Mangan, celebrated journalist and author of Bookworm and its follow-up Bookish, is a fierce defender of the written word. Her sharp wit and deep love for books have made her a leading voice in cultural commentary and literary life.
Together, these creative powerhouses will go head-to-head, sharing their inspirations, challenges, and creative quirks in a conversation led by Dr. Tim Rideout. Whether you’re an artist, reader, crafter or thinker—this is a vibrant celebration of imagination in all its forms.
Who will win the battle of creativity? The audience decides.

Georgian Creativity & Artistry with Essie Fox and Laura Shepherd-Robinson
2025-07-12 12:30 - 13:30 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Step into the glittering, shadowy world of 18th-century intrigue, creativity, and scandal as two of today’s most exciting historical fiction authors, Essie Fox and Laura Shepherd-Robinson, join Dr Tim Rideout for a lively and illuminating conversation.
From the opulent palazzos of Venice to the bustling streets of Georgian London, this event dives into the drama, deception, and artistic flair of a time when danger and beauty walked hand in hand.
Essie Fox, bestselling author of The Fascination, returns with her new book, Dangerous—a bold reimagining of Lord Byron himself as a reluctant detective, embroiled in a deadly mystery amid the Venetian elite. Blending fact and fiction, Fox captures Byron’s wit, scandal, and complexity in a gothic murder tale worthy of the poet’s infamous reputation.
Laura Shepherd-Robinson, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Square of Sevens, presents her latest novel, The Art of a Lie. Set in 1749, it follows Hannah Cole, a struggling widow and confectioner whose life is upended by secrets, murder, and the emergence of a delicious new invention: iced cream. Rich in period detail, suspense, and atmosphere, it’s a thrilling story of deception, survival, and reinvention.
Join Essie and Laura at Newark Town Hall for rich discussion, insight into researching and writing historical fiction, and a glimpse into the artistry behind these vivid, twist-filled tales.
A book signing will follow the talk—don’t miss your chance to meet the authors and pick up a signed copy of your next favourite read!

Dragons and Fairytale Fun
2025-07-12 12:00 - 16:00 | Inspire, Newark Buttermarket (upstairs)
Join the Inspire Learning and Music teams in a Dragons and Fairytale themed afternoon, with drop-in arts and crafts, have-a-go music sessions and meet Sapphire the Dragon and her friend Sparky.
Make a fire-breathing paper dragon, fold your own origami frog prince, and sit down with local picture book illustrator Vicky Kuhn for some fairytale colouring in. Create some dragon cartoons with the Doodling Poet Chris White. Write a funny, happy or sad poem about, ‘What a Dragon would say’, and make your dragon puppets and fairytale tower or castle to take home.
Perfect for any aged creative!

Bookbench Storytime: Castles in the Air Bench
2025-07-12 12:00 - 14:00 | Inspire, Newark Buttermarket (upstairs)
Continuing the Dragons and Fairytale theme from Inspired Learning and Music teams’ event, Dragons & Fairytale Fun. Join storyteller Nicky Rafferty (at 12pm and 1pm) and our festival’s Young Ambassadors (at 2pm) for some mythical, magical, made-up storytime fun at the Castle in the Air Bookbench found inside Buttermarket.
Ideal for story-lovers aged 2 – 10 years

Bookbench Storytime: Newark By Day/Night Bench
2025-07-12 11:30 - 12:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Join Newark Book Festival’s Young Ambassadors for a free storytime session at the Newark By Day/Night Bookbench.
You’ll find our magical Young Ambassador storytellers and the BookBench opposite Letsxcape inside Newark Town Hall. Go through the Market Place entrance and you won’t miss it!
It’s a FREE event! Just pop along on the day to enjoy our stories.

Byron's Manor: Birthplace of his poetry
2025-07-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Discover how Southwell and Newark shaped Lord Byron’s early life and poetry, in this richly illustrated talk featuring rare images and unpublished works.
Join Geoffrey Bond OBE, DL, FSA—Byron expert and author of Byron’s Manor: Birthplace of His Poetry—for a fascinating exploration of Lord Byron’s formative years and the places that shaped his earliest work.
In this special Newark Book Festival event, Bond draws on decades of research and personal insight to offer a fresh perspective on Byron’s early life in Southwell. Speaking from the rare vantage point of someone who has lived in Burgage Manor—Byron’s Southwell residence—for over 30 years, Bond takes audiences through the poet’s time in Nottinghamshire, where he wrote and published his first four volumes of poetry. He also explores Byron’s connection to Newark, where his early works were printed by Samuel Ridge.
Whether you’re a lover of poetry, literary history, or local heritage, this event offers a rare chance to step into Byron’s world—and the rooms where it all began.

Young Ambassadors Writing Workshop
2025-07-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
An exclusive event for Newark Book Festival’s Young Ambassadors and keen writers, bursting with ideas!
Do you love writing stories or poems? Join the creative workshop with poet, performer and educator Leanne Moden and shape your ideas into your new story or poem.
It’s fun, it’s friendly, and it’s all about finding your voice and making your writing the best that it can be!
Exclusive event for Young Ambassadors. Email hello@newarkbookfestival.co.uk to book your space.
Find out more about how you can join to become a Young Ambassador next year here.

2025 Summer Reading Challenge - Story Garden
2025-07-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Newark Library Children’s Area, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW
The World Famous Story Emporium is putting on gardening gloves and wellies and loading up its wheelbarrow with pens and paper for some story-inspired green-fingered crafty fun. Join Ally Pally Arts in sowing stories and harvesting happy endings at Newark Library to launch the Summer Reading Challenge.
No need to book, drop into Newark Library and enjoy this free event.

The Brain at Rest
2025-07-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
What if doing less was the key to thinking more clearly, creatively, feeling better, and living longer?
In this fascinating and eye-opening event, neuroscientist and bestselling author Dr Joseph Jebelli introduces his latest book, The Brain at Rest—a timely and transformative exploration of the science behind stillness, rest, and recovery.
Drawing on cutting-edge research and global case studies, Dr Jebelli reveals how overwork, constant stimulation, and modern busyness are reshaping our brains and harming our health. From the Japanese phenomenon of karoshi (death by overwork) to the power of short walks and the mind-clearing effects of nature, The Brain at Rest offers powerful insight into why slowing down might just save our minds.
Learn how just four minutes of movement can lift your mood, why forest bathing boosts immunity, and how rest is essential for everything from memory to creativity. Packed with engaging stories, neuroscience-backed facts, and practical tips, this is more than a book talk—it’s an invitation to reset.
You’ll have a chance to ask any questions at the end, and get your own copy of the book signed by the author.
Whether you’re burned out, curious, or just looking for a new perspective, take this hour to do something radical: pause, listen, and let your brain rest.

Literature Village
2025-07-12 - 2025-07-13 | Newark Market Place, Newark Royal Market, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Saturday 12th July 9.30am – 4pm
Wonderful local bookish crafts and trinkets, stories and books of all genres. Find the Literature Village under the red and white stripes of the Newark Royal Market stalls and, due to the popularity of the event, spilling between the colonnades inside the Buttermarket.
Sunday 13th July 10am – 3pm
Join in as the Literature Village takes over the entire Royal Market for the day with over 60 stalls, and family fun in the dedicated Children’s Zone. Find a treasure trove of all things literary related including crafts, books, poetry, authors and more. Sponsored by The Coffeehouse Writer.
Look out for the roaming street performers and their hula hoops on Sunday and join in the fun!

An evening with Sophie Hannah
2025-07-11 19:00 - 20:30 | Palace Theatre, Palace Theatre, Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
A crime thriller so gripping, you won’t see the twist coming…
If you love razor-sharp suspense, dark humour, and stories that keep you guessing until the very last line, this is an evening you won’t want to miss. Sophie Hannah’s crime novels have captivated millions worldwide, and now’s your chance to hear from the master of psychological twists herself.
Enjoy your Friday evening with Sophie Hannah at Newark Book Festival, in an interview with Dr. Tim Rideout.
What makes a family do the unthinkable? Could you ever justify the impossible? Sophie’s latest thriller takes that question to shocking new heights. And with reviews calling it “brilliant,” “audacious,” and “wry, ingenious” – you’ll want to get your hands on a copy before everyone’s talking about it.
Book signing included! Get your copy of No One Would Do What the Lamberts Have Done at the festival and have it signed by Sophie Hannah after the event.
Tickets are on sale now! Secure your seat at Newark’s Palace Theatre for an unforgettable night of crime, mystery, and storytelling magic.

Creating Characters
2025-07-11 16:00 - 17:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
What makes a character unforgettable? How do authors breathe life into the people who live on the page long after the book is closed?
Step into the heart of the storytelling process with bestselling authors Caroline James and Rowan Coleman, as they talk to Fee Mak about the art of character creation—how their fictional favourites are born, developed, and brought vividly to life.
From romance to historical drama, Caroline and Rowan craft characters who feel real, relatable, and impossible not to root for. Caroline James brings warmth and wit to every page, with her latest novel The Cruise Club offering onboard adventures and friendship in the most fabulous of settings. Her characters sparkle with humour, heart, and second chances.
Rowan Coleman, Sunday Times bestselling author and screenwriter, delivers emotionally rich, immersive fiction. Her latest novel Never Tear Us Apart is set on the beautiful yet dangerous island of Malta during WWII—a sweeping story of love, resilience, and destiny. Writing also as Bella Ellis, Rowan reimagines the Brontë sisters as sleuths in her clever and atmospheric Bronte Mysteries series.
Together, they’ll explore how characters shape a story, how they surprise even their creators, and why readers connect so deeply to fictional lives. With Fee Mak, BBC Radio 1Xtra presenter and bookstagrammer behind High Shelf Esteem, guiding the conversation, this event promises to be as lively and engaging as the characters themselves.
Expect laughter, insight, and plenty of inspiration—plus a book signing to follow.

The Best of Everything: Kit De Waal
2025-07-11 14:00 - 15:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
An engaging and heartfelt interview with acclaimed author Kit De Waal, as she discusses her moving new novel, The Best of Everything. This compelling contemporary story explores love, loss, unexpected motherhood, and the quiet courage it takes to care.
‘A profoundly compassionate novel of devastating power and emotional complexity’ – Bernardine Evaristo.
‘So deeply moving: sad and beautiful and true’ – Annie MacManus
Expect an intimate, thought-provoking author interview, conducted by Leanne Moden, filled with reflections on grief, resilience, and the different forms love can take.
Kit De Waal will be book signing after the event at the pop-up bookshop at Newark Town Hall, where you can buy your own copy too.

CAT Dungeons and Dragons Workshop
2025-07-11 13:30 - 16:00 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
Join Game Master Lawrence Mahon and facilitator Via Macnab for a Dungeons & Dragons adventure, a Creativity Autistic Together event. Create characters, tell your story, and shape your destiny in a fun, neuro-inclusive, and imaginative workshop. Roll the dice and see where your choices take you!
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the game, you’ll have the chance to create characters, forge alliances, and shape the unfolding story with your choices. Will you save the villagers, join forces with the dragon, or battle demons—both literal and figurative? Your path is yours to forge, but remember: every decision has consequences, and the dice will decide your fate!
This session is all about creativity, teamwork, and unleashing your imagination in a supportive, inclusive environment. Organised by Creatively Autistic Together CIC (CAT), this workshop is designed with neuro-inclusivity and accessible ways of working as its heart, ensuring everyone can join in, feel welcome, and have fun.
Gather your creativity, roll the dice, and get ready to dive into a fantastical adventure where the only limit is your imagination.

Island Spirit
2025-07-11 11:30 - 12:30 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
Join Derby-based songwriting duo –vocalist Nina Blaszczyk and guitarist Phil Baggaley—for a spellbinding musical performance of their latest project, Island Spirit.
Known for their soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Nina and Phil combine fresh vocal emotion with seasoned musical craft to create a unique and moving live experience.
Island Spirit, based on a story by Tim Harvey, follows a young Polish woman who travels to a remote Scottish island in search of her roots. Taking a job at a local whisky distillery, she begins to unravel the story of her mother—and discovers secrets about the father she never knew. Told through original songs and narrative, the show explores themes of family, belonging, identity, and the powerful pull of the past.
This special Edinburgh Fringe preview offers an intimate first look at the musical’s stunning blend of storytelling and song. Between the evocative lyrics and rich acoustic sound, listeners are transported to windswept coastlines, hidden histories, and emotional revelations. With musical influences drawn from Scottish folk traditions, Island Spirit is both grounded in place and universal in feeling.
Returning to Newark Book Festival, Beyond the Blue present a deeply human story with haunting melodies and lyrical beauty. A must-see for fans of folk, acoustic music, and poignant tales well told.

Bookbench Storytime: Shimmer & Shine Bench
2025-07-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Newark Art Gallery, 42A Kirk Gate, Newark, NG24 1AB, United Kingdom
Meet local Newark-based author Emma Oldham at the Shimmer and Shine Bookbench by artist Carla Dee inside Newark Art Gallery for a storytelling session of The Whale Who Disappeared.
Perfect for ages 2-6 years.
No need to book just turn up and enjoy!

Deadly Secrets and Dystopian Fears
2025-07-11 10:15 - 11:15 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Expect simmering tension, shocking revelations, and razor-sharp social commentary as two of Orenda Books’ most gripping voices in crime and speculative fiction—Eva Björg Ægisdóttir and Eve Smith—sit down with interviewer Dr Tim Rideout for a chillingly compelling conversation.
With over a million copies sold worldwide, Eva Björg Ægisdóttir has been hailed as the Queen of Icelandic Suspense. Her latest standalone novel, Home Before Dark, is a haunting psychological thriller where long-buried secrets claw their way into the light. Set in 1960s Iceland, the story unravels the consequences of a teenage girl’s deception—one that sets in motion a dangerous chain of events where no one is truly safe.
Eve Smith, master of dystopian thrillers, introduces The Cure—a heart-pounding, speculative tale set in a near-future world obsessed with reversing ageing. When a scientific breakthrough is hijacked, society spirals into chaos, forcing one woman to risk everything to hide a discovery that could alter humanity forever. Eve’s work is known for its eerie plausibility, weaving real-world science with a terrifying glimpse of what could come next.
Both authors will discuss their writing processes, the dark themes they explore, and how their novels reflect the moral and societal dilemmas of our time. Expect a thought-provoking, edge-of-your-seat conversation that blurs the lines between crime, psychological thriller, and dystopian fiction.

Do Lions Hate Haircuts: Storytime and Craft session
2025-07-11 09:30 - 10:30 | Newark Library Children’s Area, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW
Join children’s author Bethany Walker for a lively and laughter-filled morning inspired by her hilarious picture book, Do Lions Hate Haircuts? This fun and interactive event is perfect for little ones who love stories, silliness, and getting crafty!
Meet Leonard the Lion—an impeccably groomed feline with very strong opinions about his hair. In this engaging storytelling session, Bethany will bring Leonard’s tale to life, complete with audience interaction and plenty of giggles. Find out why Leonard is so fussy about his mane, and what happens when things go a little… wild at the hair salon!
After the story, get creative with a roaringly fun craft activity. Kids will design and collage their very own fabulous hairstyle for Leonard—will it be curly, spiky, stripy, rainbow-coloured, or something entirely unexpected? All materials will be provided, and children are encouraged to bring their imagination (and maybe a bit of sparkle too!).
Beautifully illustrated by Steph Laberis, Do Lions Hate Haircuts? is a joyful celebration of self-expression and the power of being yourself—perfect for children aged 3–7 and their grown-ups.
Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment. We can’t wait to see your wild and wonderful lion styles!

The North Road - Rob Cowen
2025-07-10 19:00 - 20:00 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Hear about the unforgettable exploration of Britain’s 400-mile highway in an author interview with Rob Cowen and his novel The North Road.
A captivating evening with award-winning writer Rob Cowen, as he discusses his remarkable and genre-defying book, The North Road, in conversation with Dr Tim Rideout.
At the heart of The North Road lies one of Britain’s oldest and most iconic highways—the A1. Known historically as The Great North Road, this 400-mile stretch has been many things over the last two millennia: a Roman road, a pilgrim’s path, a coaching route, and a modern motorway. But in Cowen’s hands, it becomes something much more—a living, breathing thread that connects the country’s past, present, and possible futures.
Winding through time and memory, The North Road explores the layered history of the landscape and those who have walked it. Part memoir, part travelogue, part cultural history, the book is a deeply personal exploration of belonging, movement, and the stories we build upon the land. Cowen weaves tales of ancient wayfarers and modern travellers, myth and reality, asphalt and soil, offering a profound meditation on identity and place.
In this intimate author interview during Newark Book Festival, Rob Cowen will share insights into the inspiration, research, and writing process behind The North Road, as well as reflect on the emotional and intellectual journey he undertook to write it. Expect a conversation rich in history, storytelling, and the quiet power of landscape.
Whether you’re a fan of nature writing, interested in the hidden histories of Britain, or simply love a compelling human story grounded in place, this is an evening not to miss.
There will be a book signing at the end and copies of The North Road will be available to purchase on the night or before the event at Newark Book Festival’s book shop at the Town Hall.
A dazzlingly inventive work of literature’ – Robert Macfarlane
‘A wonderful, epic braiding of history, geography and personal memoir’ – James Rebanks
‘Stunning… It will stay with me.’ – Raynor Winn

Wine and Words
2025-07-10 15:30 - 18:00 | Gannets Bistro, Gannets Bistro, 35 Castle Gate, Newark, NG24 1AZ, United Kingdom
Enjoy an afternoon of wine and words at Newark Book Festival with local poets Fiona Theokritoff and Jane Wyles.
Book your tickets to one of the most popular Newark Book Festival events, Wine and Words – an early evening of poetry with Fiona and Jane.
You’ll hear their entertaining mix of poems, as well as some well-loved works, before adding your own words to the event poem.
Fiona and Jane launched Wine and Words in Newark in 2013 as part of the Nottingham Poetry Festival, and it has evolved into the regular and popular event it is today, with audience participation and their own unique poetry too.
Book your tickets by calling Fiona directly on 07553 928099. All tickets include a welcome glass of prosecco or soft drink, plus light refreshments throughout the event.
Held upstairs at Gannets Café, this venue unfortunately does not have step-free access.

From the Stars to Electric Cars
2025-07-10 13:30 - 15:00 | Inspire, Newark Buttermarket (upstairs)
Join local Newark poet and tutor Fiona Theokritoff at Inspire in the Buttermarket for a creative writing workshop themed on the wonders of the natural world.
Whether you’re picking up a pen for the first time or returning to writing with years of experience under your belt, this creative writing workshop is your invitation to connect with nature through words.
Led by local poet and experienced tutor Fiona Theokritoff, this inspiring session invites you to explore the beauty of the natural world and imagine sustainable futures—on the page and beyond.
Fiona’s From the Stars to Electric Cars workshop will guide you through a range writing exercises using visual prompts, poetry, and thought-provoking themes to spark your creativity. Bring a notebook, a pen, and your imagination.
This small group workshop offers a taste of Fiona’s upcoming course on the Inspire programme, launching in Autumn 2025. The full course will delve deeper into writing inspired by our environment and the urgent need to care for it—with weekly sessions designed to help you grow in confidence, develop your writing voice, and explore how creativity can contribute to conversations around climate, sustainability, and our relationship with the planet.
Whether you’re curious about writing poetry for the first time, seeking fresh inspiration, or interested in how the natural world can shape our stories, this relaxed and welcoming workshop will give you the tools to begin.
Come along to discover the joy of writing in community, and leave with new ideas, new words, and perhaps a new perspective on the world around you.

Grow, Play & Live with Luke Palmer
2025-07-10 13:30 - 14:30 | Palace Theatre, Palace Theatre, Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Carnegie and Branford Boase-shortlisted author and poet, Luke Palmer, is taking to the stage at Newark Book Festival in a powerful and inspiring book talk about his latest YA novel, Live—a stunning coming-of-age story that hits all the right notes.
A coming-of-age novel about music, friendship, and grief. Perfect for teens aged 13+, Luke’s book talk explores creativity, resilience, and what it means to grow up.
Set in the emotional whirlwind of Year Twelve, Live follows George, a passionate young musician who dreams of making it big with his band. But when tragedy strikes, George and his classmates are forced to face grief, friendship, and growing up in a story filled with heart, hope, and the healing power of music.
Perfect for readers who love the work of James Goodhand, Lisa Williamson, and Bali Rai, Live combines vivid storytelling with raw emotion and musical energy. The book also includes original song lyrics—and possibly even a playlist—bringing George’s world to life in an immersive, relatable way for young readers.
Luke Palmer, also an award-winning poet, will discuss his writing process, the themes of creativity and resilience that shape his work, and what it means to tell stories that help young people navigate life’s toughest moments.
This is a brilliant session for students, teachers, and home educators looking to spark discussion about friendship, ambition, grief, self-expression, and what it truly means to live.
FREE FOR SCHOOLS AND HOME EDUCATION COMMUNITY
EMAIL hello@newarkbookfestival.org.uk to book your place

Your First Novel - Writing Workshop
2025-07-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
Get the essential tools and confidence you need to begin your first novel in a writing workshop with The Coffeehouse Writer, Mandi Allen, during Newark Book Festival.
Shape your unique narrative voice in this 2-hour group writing workshop with creative exercises to help turn your abstract dream into a more refined work in progress, in a process that breaks the writing journey down into manageable steps.
Discover how to develop compelling ideas, craft memorable characters, and structure your story effectively, alongside learning how to navigate common first-draft challenges.
Scripting Master Mandi Allen brings her knowledge, wit and creativity to the workshop, learnt from her extensive experience of writing for plays, film, journalism, and even business!
In this workshop, you’ll gain the confidence, momentum and a set of concrete strategies to start writing your first novel from the moment you get home. Overcome the obstacles that prevent many aspiring novelists from finishing their manuscripts, and turn your novel into a workable reality.
Whether you’ve been contemplating writing a novel for years or just recently felt the creative urge to write, this workshop provides the perfect launching pad for your literary adventure.
Join Mandi Allen at Newark Book Festival this summer for her spark-inducing workshop to help you write your very first novel.

Fantasy and Adventure Panel
2025-07-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Palace Theatre, Palace Theatre, Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Step into a world of magical tattoos, time-stopping twins, glittering cities, and centuries-old secrets in this unforgettable event for young fantasy lovers. Acclaimed authors Michelle Harrison and Philippa Leathley take the stage for a spellbinding book talk and Q&A, exploring the power of storytelling, the joy of writing fantasy, and what it takes to create unforgettable adventures.
Philippa Leathley introduces her gripping new book Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo, the second in her magical middle-grade series. When Metty receives a fate-marking tattoo of a skull, her life changes forever. With danger lurking and her father missing, Metty must journey to New London to uncover the truth—and find out who she really is.
Michelle Harrison, bestselling author of A Pinch of Magic and The Thirteen Treasures, shares a first look at her brand new novel Twice Upon a Time—a deliciously twisty mystery about twin sisters who can stop time. What begins as a quiet holiday quickly turns into a time-bending investigation involving missing people, locked rooms, and family secrets.
In conversation with Kate Hancock, this event is packed with fantasy world-building, thrilling plot twists, and plenty of writerly wisdom to inspire young readers and budding authors alike.
Early copies of Michelle Harrison’s Twice Upon a Time will be available to purchase and sign on the day!
Ideal for students aged 8–13, this lively, magical event will leave imaginations racing and pens ready to write.
FREE FOR SCHOOL GROUPS AND HOME EDUCATED COMMUNITY
Contact hello@newarkbookfestival.org.uk to book your tickets.

The Zone
2025-07-10 - 2025-07-13 | Newark Market Place, Newark Royal Market, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Chill, create, be you at The Zone – Zest Theatre’s award-winning pop-up community space, open after school and over the festival weekend, and brought to you by Newark Creates. From laidback hangouts and high-energy workshops with pro artists to gaming, book corners, and adrenaline-pumping parties – you decide how to spend your time in The Zone.
Open after school and across the weekend, it’s the perfect place to chill, create, and be you.
Thursday 10th July | 3pm - 6pm
Friday 11th July | 3pm - 6pm
Saturday 12th July | 11am - 5pm
Sunday 13th July | 11am - 5pm
#GetInTheZone

BookBench Art Exhibition
2024-07-20 10:00 - 2024-09-05 11:00 | Newark Library, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Baldertongate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
Local Nottinghamshire schools have been busy designing their own poster creations of the Newark
Creates Wild in Art BookBenches – you can find these on display at Newark Library from 20th July – 5th September.
FREE

Reggie Houser Has The Power - Helen Rutter
2024-07-14 16:30 - 17:30 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Join us for the last festival event of the season at the National Civil War Centre, for a laugh-out-loud book talk and reading by Helen Rutter and her latest story, Reggie Houser Has The Power.
Learn all about Reggie, a boy with ADHD who goes on a mission to learn mind control. Will Reggie’s incredible talent solve all his problems or just get him into deep trouble? Interviewed by Kate Hancock.
Suitable for 8-12 year olds.

Red Side Story - Jasper Fforde
2024-07-14 14:45 - 15:45 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Jasper Fforde, the acclaimed SUNDAY TIMES NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER, invites you to imagine a world where your position in society depended on what bit of the colour spectrum you could see…
Red Side Story delves into the limitations of a society imposed on itself by itself, immovable dogma and the spirit of humans trying to love, survive and make sense of a world that makes no sense at all. Only it does, of course – you just have to look harder and forget everything you’ve ever been told.
Following the mishaps and adventures of Eddie and Jane, and the residents of East Carmine, as they navigate the Rules, finding loopholes and trying to avoid being sent to the Green Room. Expect an entertaining afternoon of meandering through the various absurd and surreal Ffordian worlds, as Jasper gives us a glimpse into his inventive and mischievous mind.
