By Rosie Burgoyne, Michaela O’Callaghan, Kellie Smith and Erin Evett
Pathways Plus Spring Masterclasses For Aspiring Children’s Illustrators
Multiple dates throughout Spring 2022
Pop Up Projects CIC, an independent, non-profit children's literature agency, has announced an exciting new series of masterclasses for aspiring children’s book illustrators, shaped around helping attendees improve their practice and gain valuable insights into how to create successful children’s books. Each of the courses will include professional insights from the likes of Dapo Adeola, Ben Norland and Sara Ogilvie, along with practical tasks and resources, constructive feedback and the opportunity to interact with tutors and other participants.
Speaking with The Publishing Post about the mission behind the events, Pop Up Projects CIC’s Nataacha Hussain said:
“We really understand the need for more diversity in the publishing industry and want to give our illustration courses a push so that aspiring illustrators from under-represented communities can find out about these opportunities and get involved. Pathways Plus is a series of expert masterclasses & short courses for aspiring children’s book illustrators, all run by leading children's book illustrators and publishers in the industry!”
You can find out more about the Pathways Plus courses via this link, or sign up to the Pathways newsletter for all the latest offers and updates about the Spring 2022 courses.
Book Machine, Talking Editorial: The Evolutionary Role of the Editor
Wed 23 March 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
This event takes a closer look at the changing responsibilities of an editor. It explores how the roles of editor, publicist and marketer are no longer separate but often relate and merge in various ways. Join Magdalene Abraha, Mireille Harper and Ore Agbaje-Williams as they explore how editors have to listen to their audience and are challenged by their readership. Tickets are £5 and you can sign up here.
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee Live: Happy Mind, Happy Life
27 April to 16 May 2022
Happy Mind, Happy Life is a new book by Dr Rangan Chatterjee. Join Dr Chatterjee as he shares his cutting-edge insights into the science of happiness and discusses ways to support our mental wellbeing. There will also be a post-show Q&A so come ready with questions! Some of the areas he visits on his book tour include Basingstoke, Bristol and Edinburgh. Tickets are £24+, find out more here.
An Evening with Ryan O'Connor, The Voids
23 March, 7:00 p.m.
Author Ryan O’Connor will be discussing his debut novel, The Voids, at Sauchiehall Street Waterstones, Glasgow. The Voids is a promising new novel which shines a light on contemporary Britain, and is filled with humour and relatability, while also grappling with issues of modern day life. For more information, click here.
Huddersfield Literature Festival
24 March to 3 April 2022
The Huddersfield Literature Festival (HLF) is a ten-day award-winning mixed-media festival that promotes accessibility, diversity and under-represented groups by hosting 50+ digital, outdoor and venue-based activities online and in accessible venues throughout Huddersfield. The festival features a diverse programme of author talks, workshops, discussion topics, performance poetry, multi-arts performances, wellbeing projects, events for young people and family-friendly events showcasing emerging writers and artists alongside established names. From being able to pitch your book to publishers (Peepal Tree Press, Scratching Shed Publishing and Saraband), to a “Plan Your Novel” workshop, or an online interview with Michelle Elman (author of The Joy of Being Selfish), this festival is not to be missed! HLF promotes accessibility by providing a digital offer and many free and low-cost events, including some with live subtitling, and access guides to key venues to provide more opportunities for a wider range of people to enjoy arts and culture. To find out more about what’s on and to book tickets for individual events, visit this page!
An Evening with V.E. Schwab
25 March, 7:00 p.m.
Don’t miss out on what promises to be a wonderful evening with the number one New York Times bestselling fantasy writer V.E. Schwab, author of the popular The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. She will be discussing her latest book Gallant, a gothic fantasy centred around a girl who is lured into a mysterious mansion. Her previous fantasy novels, including the Shades of Magic series and City of Ghosts series, have earned the titles of Waterstones’ Best Fantasy Books of 2015, The Guardian’s Best science fiction novels and the Telegraph’s choice. Signed copies of Gallant will be available for purchase. For more information and ticket prices, click here.
Meet Annie Garthwaite
29 March, 1:00 p.m.
Join Annie Garthwaite in Waterstones, Leeds for the book signing of her popular novel, Cecily, which will be coming out in paperback this Spring. Cecily is historical fiction which focuses on the life of the Duchess of York and her part in the War of the Roses, while also entwining her role as a mother and as a wife. For more information, click here.