Scottish Book Trust Children's Festival

Adventures in Scottish Books for 0-14 year-olds
1st - 7th March 2008

The Scottish Book Trust Children's Book Festival may now be over but the memories of all the wonderful events will live on in the hearts and minds of the children, teachers, classroom assistants, parent helpers and staff who attened the sold out festival.

There were 20 free events for school children to attend as well as 4 public events. The events (author/illustrator talks and illustration and writing workshops) were held in a variety of venues across Edinburgh; from Sandeman House to the Netherbow Theatre to Edinburgh Zoo, the National Museum of Scotland and to public Libraries.

We were delighted with the response that we received from the children folowing the events and here is a selection of what they said as well as some pictures of the events themselves.

"I now have the confidence to be a writer one day...As I'm an intelligent young girl I might step up my game and join the competition as it is a good way to spread my wings"
Charlee, talking about how she felt after watching the Keith Gray event.

"Ah hid a braw time when I was daein the poems"
Robbie, talking in Scots after the event with Matthew Fitt.

"This event has inspired me to read more"
Rebecca, commenting on Cathy Cassidy

We must also stress that the festival could not have been so successful without the great authors, illustrators and storytellers who put on and performed such amazing events.

The festival was funded by:

• The National Lottery through the Scottish Arts Council
• The Russell Trust
• The HBOS Foundation
• City of Edinburgh Council