As we mark the first-ever Michael Rosen Day, celebrating 50 years since Michael’s first book, Barnsley Libraries are excited to announce the second edition of the Barnsley Book Festival and Michael Rosen as a headliner of next year’s programme.

The author of ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ will be hosting a very special family performance and book signing in February next year.

The second edition of the Barnsley Book Festival is set to take place across the borough from Saturday 15 February until Saturday 8 March 2025.

As part of the diverse programme, the festival will celebrate themes such as the natural world, new works, and local authors. Audiences will have the opportunity to meet acclaimed poets and writers, as well as discover new authors and their work.

To kick off the festival with a bang, Concerteenies, an award-winning producer of musical events and activities for young children, will present a musical story of ‘The Big Dreaming’ at Library @ the Lightbox, perfect for families to enjoy.

Some other festival highlights include:

• An enchanting evening with acclaimed author Rosie Garland as she introduces her spellbinding new short story collection ‘Your Sons and Your Daughters Are Beyond’.
• An evening in the company of wildlife presenter and nature writer Ajay Tegala, where he will be talking about his experiences as a ranger in the UK, as well as various media appearances, including on BBC Springwatch.

Councillor Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said: “We are thrilled to announce the return of the Barnsley Book Festival for its second edition. Earlier this year, the festival was a huge success, attracting over 3,000 visitors across all the events, and next year’s festival promises to be just as remarkable.

“Having Michael Rosen as a headliner is a true honour, and we look forward to his special family performance. We would like to invite all residents and visitors from beyond Barnsley to join us in this celebration of literature and share in our love for reading.”

The full festival programme will be announced during Barnsley Bright Nights on Friday 22 November. While most events will be free, booking will be required to manage audience numbers.

Barnsley Book Festival is supported using public funding from the Arts Council England as part of Barnsley Libraries’ National Portfolio Organisation activity.