Leek Loves Books | book festival | Moorlands House, Stockwell St, Leek ST13 6HQ, UK

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Book onto workshop here (external website) via Foxlowe

Book onto evening event (external website) via Foxlowe

Find out more about the Writing That Sings creators and exObjects where all this began at

Click to meet the commissioned authors for Writing That Sings

Click on the text below to find out more.

Listen to Sauma’s short piece about childhood and climate change in India.

Read Sauma’s short exObject story about the lost heritage of her grandparents in Uttar Pradesh, India

image_123650291 (2).JPG

You can read Sauma and Alison’s stories in the new colour-illustrated anthology featuring prize-winning novelists, memoirists and TV scriptwriters: exObjects: the art of holding on, letting go.

Our sci fi and fantasy book club meets tonight to discuss A darker shade of magic.

Have you read it what did you think?

Our sci fi and fantasy book club meets tonight to discuss A darker shade of magic.

Have you read it what did you think?

Email us today - Friday to book onto these two workshops being held in the Foxlowe this Saturday as part of our festival.
We have an exciting new offer of 2 tickets for £10 !!!

Email or message us to request this offer!

Email us today - Friday to book onto these two workshops being held in the Foxlowe this Saturday as part of our festival.
We have an exciting new offer of 2 tickets for £10 !!!

Email or message us to request this offer!

Festival is kicking off folks!

Today is the last day to book onto our first creative writing workshop being hosted at the Foxlowe on the 31st May at 11am.

Get your spot booked now and enjoy a wonderful workshop with creative writing about an object special to you.

We have two complimentary tickets for this event as well so message us if you are interested and qualify.

LLB Festival 2025 starts now :)

Festival is kicking off folks!

Today is the last day to book onto our first creative writing workshop being hosted at the Foxlowe on the 31st May at 11am.

Get your spot booked now and enjoy a wonderful workshop with creative writing about an object special to you.

We have two complimentary tickets for this event as well so message us if you are interested and qualify.

LLB Festival 2025 starts now :)

Join leek loves books tomorrow at the market stall.

We will be at the stall all day and running the second 10 tickets for £10 for our headline evening.

Marc makes comics will also be making a guest appearance so come on down to see a demo.

Join leek loves books tomorrow at the market stall.

We will be at the stall all day and running the second 10 tickets for £10 for our headline evening.

Marc makes comics will also be making a guest appearance so come on down to see a demo.

Families!

We have lots going on for children at our festival. This is all taking place at the Foxlowe both inside and outside. You can secure your childs spot by booking them a place through our website as some of these events are space limited so numbers are limited.

We have space on the first ever reading of Sea Slug or Alien bug so if your children like a little creepy crawly talk mixed with under the sea vibes this is the story to book onto.

You only need to book for the children ( adults obviously need to stay with children but you don't need a ticket for you)

Charlotte is also doing a poetry session - she has worked with Leek Library in the past so you may have met her already - these are really fun laid back sessions.

The main festival author hub is only a few steps away in the Moorlands council building and some of these authors also have children's books so you can pop into both :)

Families!

We have lots going on for children at our festival. This is all taking place at the Foxlowe both inside and outside. You can secure your childs spot by booking them a place through our website as some of these events are space limited so numbers are limited.

We have space on the first ever reading of Sea Slug or Alien bug so if your children like a little creepy crawly talk mixed with under the sea vibes this is the story to book onto.

You only need to book for the children ( adults obviously need to stay with children but you don't need a ticket for you)

Charlotte is also doing a poetry session - she has worked with Leek Library in the past so you may have met her already - these are really fun laid back sessions.

The main festival author hub is only a few steps away in the Moorlands council building and some of these authors also have children's books so you can pop into both :)

We are so lucky to be joined on the 7th by The Reading Fairy!

We will have one free session running in the Foxlowe.
07 Jun 2025 14:00 – 14:40
Ages 1-5 years
Limited spaces
Book through leeklovesbooks.com

The Reading Fairy session will be about ‘Journeys.’
We’ll be going on a sensory story with Reading Fairy to a busy high street, where we’ll see lots of different vehicles. There’ll be songs to go with the wonderful things we find! Music Mouse will hide clues to nursery rhymes in her house and Book Bear will be sharing a story with his little bear friends.

Keep an eye on our socials to meet Music Mouse and Book Bear :)

We are so lucky to be joined on the 7th by The Reading Fairy!

We will have one free session running in the Foxlowe.
07 Jun 2025 14:00 – 14:40
Ages 1-5 years
Limited spaces
Book through leeklovesbooks.com

The Reading Fairy session will be about ‘Journeys.’
We’ll be going on a sensory story with Reading Fairy to a busy high street, where we’ll see lots of different vehicles. There’ll be songs to go with the wonderful things we find! Music Mouse will hide clues to nursery rhymes in her house and Book Bear will be sharing a story with his little bear friends.

Keep an eye on our socials to meet Music Mouse and Book Bear :)

10 for £10 tickets from 10.00am

Ten main evening festival tickets

go to the first 10 people*

who claim in person

LEEK LOVES BOOKS stall

Butter Market

Wednesday 21st May

Saturday 24th May

Wednesday 28th May

* 1 discounted ticket per person

30 discounted tickets available in total

Usual price £15

10 for £10 tickets from 10.00am

Ten main evening festival tickets

go to the first 10 people*

who claim in person

LEEK LOVES BOOKS stall

Butter Market

Wednesday 21st May

Saturday 24th May

Wednesday 28th May

* 1 discounted ticket per person

30 discounted tickets available in total

Usual price £15

Bring an object that inspires your musical memories.

With A.T. Boyle you'll create imaginative exObjects writing to develop at home.

Zooming in from India is exObjects editor Sauma Afreen.

Saturday 31st May 11.00 - 12.30
Foxlowe Arts Centre
Stockwell St, Leek, ST13 6AD
Phone: 01538 533730
Tickets: £10
Book a place: https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/

Bring an object that inspires your musical memories.

With A.T. Boyle you'll create imaginative exObjects writing to develop at home.

Zooming in from India is exObjects editor Sauma Afreen.

Saturday 31st May 11.00 - 12.30
Foxlowe Arts Centre
Stockwell St, Leek, ST13 6AD
Phone: 01538 533730
Tickets: £10
Book a place: https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/

“...Outside the shy light would soon begin its diving and dipping. Tomorrow always began darker. She stroked the ripe acorn in her pocket. Brittle and ready to pop, soothing. A gift of happiness from the past.”

(Listen, by A.T. Boyle/oil painting copyright A.T. Boyle)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com
Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings full-length 1.5 hour writing workshop and the evening premiere of an audio play Om, Pom, Pom about the seaside. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../writing-that-sings.../
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

Join us at the Taster exObjects Workshop in the Trent Room at Staffs Moorlands District Council (SMDC) offices 1.00-1.45 Saturday 7th June. Sign up on Saturday morning at the Writing That Sings bunting table, entrance to Leek Loves Books festival at SMDC. Ticket price: £5

And everyone is welcome to add their musical memories to the bunting display we'll grow from YOUR imaginative ideas between 10 and 12 on Saturday 7th June. Free.

#bookcommunity
#bibliophile
#booknerd
#bookaddict
#bookstagrammer
#reading

“...Outside the shy light would soon begin its diving and dipping. Tomorrow always began darker. She stroked the ripe acorn in her pocket. Brittle and ready to pop, soothing. A gift of happiness from the past.”

(Listen, by A.T. Boyle/oil painting copyright A.T. Boyle)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com
Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings full-length 1.5 hour writing workshop and the evening premiere of an audio play Om, Pom, Pom about the seaside. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../writing-that-sings.../
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

Join us at the Taster exObjects Workshop in the Trent Room at Staffs Moorlands District Council (SMDC) offices 1.00-1.45 Saturday 7th June. Sign up on Saturday morning at the Writing That Sings bunting table, entrance to Leek Loves Books festival at SMDC. Ticket price: £5

And everyone is welcome to add their musical memories to the bunting display we'll grow from YOUR imaginative ideas between 10 and 12 on Saturday 7th June. Free.

#bookcommunity
#bibliophile
#booknerd
#bookaddict
#bookstagrammer
#reading

“The music stopped abruptly. Just something else imagined. Dialogue, lawlessness, characters from the past mingling and flooding the mind. Movement of wind, plastic held down but lifting in gusts like a held kite. Windowless frames of a restaurant that could not appear more open to visitors...”

(Listen, by A.T. Boyle/oil painting copyright A.T. Boyle)

Imagine what comes next…

(Listen, by A.T. Boyle/oil painting copyright A.T. Boyle)

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

Try a Taster workshop
Have a go at writing or drawing something imaginative about your musical memories, your favourite sounds outdoors or indoors, something that makes you want to sing, dance, smile.

Join us at the Taster exObjects Workshop in the Trent Room at Staffs Moorlands District Council (SMDC) offices 1.00-1.45 Saturday 7th June. Sign up on Saturday morning at the Writing That Sings bunting table, entrance to Leek Loves Books festival at SMDC. Ticket price: £5

And everyone is welcome to add their musical memories to the bunting display we'll grow from YOUR imaginative ideas between 10 and 12 on Saturday 7th June. Free.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings full-length 1.5 hour writing workshop and the evening premiere of an audio play Om, Pom, Pom about the seaside. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../writing-that-sings.../
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#bookish
#bookrecommendations
#bookreview
#bookworm
#bookphotography
#instabook

“The music stopped abruptly. Just something else imagined. Dialogue, lawlessness, characters from the past mingling and flooding the mind. Movement of wind, plastic held down but lifting in gusts like a held kite. Windowless frames of a restaurant that could not appear more open to visitors...”

(Listen, by A.T. Boyle/oil painting copyright A.T. Boyle)

Imagine what comes next…

(Listen, by A.T. Boyle/oil painting copyright A.T. Boyle)

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

Try a Taster workshop
Have a go at writing or drawing something imaginative about your musical memories, your favourite sounds outdoors or indoors, something that makes you want to sing, dance, smile.

Join us at the Taster exObjects Workshop in the Trent Room at Staffs Moorlands District Council (SMDC) offices 1.00-1.45 Saturday 7th June. Sign up on Saturday morning at the Writing That Sings bunting table, entrance to Leek Loves Books festival at SMDC. Ticket price: £5

And everyone is welcome to add their musical memories to the bunting display we'll grow from YOUR imaginative ideas between 10 and 12 on Saturday 7th June. Free.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings full-length 1.5 hour writing workshop and the evening premiere of an audio play Om, Pom, Pom about the seaside. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../writing-that-sings.../
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/.../tongue-tied-twisted.../
"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#bookish
#bookrecommendations
#bookreview
#bookworm
#bookphotography
#instabook

Bonus workshop added!
Lots of The Creative club workshops are fully booked but we are lucky to add one more.

Crochet bookmark for your current read.

Join us to make a flower bookmark as part of the Leek loves books festival. You will be provided with cotton yarn and hook to make your own bookmark. Refreshments will also be provided. Thursday 29th May 6-8pm.

Book here: https://www.pebblescrochet.co.uk/shop/Crochet-Flower-Bookmark-workshop-29th-May-6-8pm-part-of-Leek-loves-books-p745498032

Bonus workshop added!
Lots of The Creative club workshops are fully booked but we are lucky to add one more.

Crochet bookmark for your current read.

Join us to make a flower bookmark as part of the Leek loves books festival. You will be provided with cotton yarn and hook to make your own bookmark. Refreshments will also be provided. Thursday 29th May 6-8pm.

Book here: https://www.pebblescrochet.co.uk/shop/Crochet-Flower-Bookmark-workshop-29th-May-6-8pm-part-of-Leek-loves-books-p745498032

Hello Leek humans :)

If you are interested in helping us at our festival this year please read the information below then complete the Volunteer Form https://forms.gle/YMZ7czyY4pFyQtYQ7
Email us at leeklovesbooks@gmail.com if you can't get onto the google form.

The festival details are all on our website at leeklovesbooks.com and that will give you an idea about what is going on and why we need more volunteers. The Main day is Saturday 7th June and both venues are almost next to each other with the rear entrance to the Foxlowe being opposite the front entrance of Moorlands House.

We will provide refreshments on the day for all volunteers too.

What will I be doing?

On the main day, 7th June:

- Steward events, welcoming visitors, showing people where to go,
- Portering
- Manning a workshop or event on main stage
- Checking tickets and numbers attending.
- Manning the tables of authors giving talks or participating on panels throughout the day if needed,
- Selling raffle tickets, mystery books and serving refreshments

Friday 6th June
- Setting up on the Friday beforehand
- Setting up tables,
- Dressing the venue,
- Putting up signage etc.

:) Leek Loves Books team x

Hello Leek humans :)

If you are interested in helping us at our festival this year please read the information below then complete the Volunteer Form https://forms.gle/YMZ7czyY4pFyQtYQ7
Email us at leeklovesbooks@gmail.com if you can't get onto the google form.

The festival details are all on our website at leeklovesbooks.com and that will give you an idea about what is going on and why we need more volunteers. The Main day is Saturday 7th June and both venues are almost next to each other with the rear entrance to the Foxlowe being opposite the front entrance of Moorlands House.

We will provide refreshments on the day for all volunteers too.

What will I be doing?

On the main day, 7th June:

- Steward events, welcoming visitors, showing people where to go,
- Portering
- Manning a workshop or event on main stage
- Checking tickets and numbers attending.
- Manning the tables of authors giving talks or participating on panels throughout the day if needed,
- Selling raffle tickets, mystery books and serving refreshments

Friday 6th June
- Setting up on the Friday beforehand
- Setting up tables,
- Dressing the venue,
- Putting up signage etc.

:) Leek Loves Books team x

Authors Panel: Cosy Crime

What draws us in to a cosy crime novel? Join Cosy crime writers discussing what makes a great cosy crime from an authors perspective. Join Dawn Brookes, T. A. Belshaw, Margaret Holbrook and Tom Mead for this cosy conversation.

Date: 07 Jun 2025,
Time: 14:00 – 14:30
Location: Moorlands house, 15 Stockwell St, Leek ST13, UK

Check out and book your space on this talk and others at https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/paneltalks2025

Authors Panel: Cosy Crime

What draws us in to a cosy crime novel? Join Cosy crime writers discussing what makes a great cosy crime from an authors perspective. Join Dawn Brookes, T. A. Belshaw, Margaret Holbrook and Tom Mead for this cosy conversation.

Date: 07 Jun 2025,
Time: 14:00 – 14:30
Location: Moorlands house, 15 Stockwell St, Leek ST13, UK

Check out and book your space on this talk and others at https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/paneltalks2025

Check out the outstanding mixed genre authors we have joining us this year.
We have a mixture of travel story telling, romance fantasy, horror, historical fantasy and more!

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/meettheauthors
The link above will take you to our meet the authors page. Here you can read about the authors and books, helping you decide what talks you might go to, and which authors you want to meet in the author hub.
This part of the festival will all be on the 7th of June from 10am - 4pm in the council moorlands room (same as last year)
Children's is all in the Foxlowe apart from our headline evening event for adults thats in the Foxlowe Saturday 7th in the evening.
Next up...poetry

Check out the outstanding mixed genre authors we have joining us this year.
We have a mixture of travel story telling, romance fantasy, horror, historical fantasy and more!

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/meettheauthors
The link above will take you to our meet the authors page. Here you can read about the authors and books, helping you decide what talks you might go to, and which authors you want to meet in the author hub.
This part of the festival will all be on the 7th of June from 10am - 4pm in the council moorlands room (same as last year)
Children's is all in the Foxlowe apart from our headline evening event for adults thats in the Foxlowe Saturday 7th in the evening.
Next up...poetry

What is slimy and luminous and lives at sea?

New story reading at Leek Loves Books Festival!
Caroline will be reading a new story Sea Slug or Alien Bug?

The first 15 children booked onto the event will receive a flag made by Caroline to go with the story.

Book your free space now at https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/story-reading-sea-slug-or-alien-bug

Date: 07 Jun 2025
Time: 10:45 – 11:00
Venue: Foxlowe, Stockwell St, Leek ST13 6AD, UK

What is slimy and luminous and lives at sea?

New story reading at Leek Loves Books Festival!
Caroline will be reading a new story Sea Slug or Alien Bug?

The first 15 children booked onto the event will receive a flag made by Caroline to go with the story.

Book your free space now at https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/story-reading-sea-slug-or-alien-bug

Date: 07 Jun 2025
Time: 10:45 – 11:00
Venue: Foxlowe, Stockwell St, Leek ST13 6AD, UK

Rebecca Struthers

A multi-award-winning designer, watchmaker, and historian; Rebecca is half of the founding husband and wife team behind Struthers Watchmakers studio and workshops.

‘An exquisite book, beautifully put together.’ Stephen Fry

‘Forty-thousand years of our relationship with time condensed into 288 pages: a hugely entertaining achievement.’ Esquire

Struthers’ first book, Hands of Time, has received critical acclaim and became a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week. This watchmaker’s history welcomes you into the hidden world of watchmaking, and to our relationship with time that spans centuries and continents.

The invention of timepieces was more significant for human culture than the printing press, or even the wheel. They have travelled the world with us, from the depths of the oceans to the summit of Everest, and even to the Moon. They regulate our daily lives and have sculpted the social and economic development of society in surprising and dramatic ways.

From her workshop bench, Struthers explores the ways in which timekeeping has indelibly shaped our attitudes to work, leisure, trade, politics, exploration and mortality, and introduces us to some extraordinary devices, each with their own story to tell. Hands of Time is an intricate exploration of the history, science, philosophy, and craft of timekeeping.

Rebecca will be joining one of our panel talks: Previous professions and impact on writing...

Hear from four authors Mark Eklid, Rebecca Struthers, Punam Farmah and Enkel Asamatjai discuss previous professions and their impact on writing. For many of our authors writing is part of a rich and varied work life - find out how being an author has changed other jobs they hold and vice versa!

Date: Sat 07 Jun | Dove Room, Moorlands House
Time: 14:00 – 14:30
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/panel-previous-professions-and-impact-on-writing

Rebecca Struthers

A multi-award-winning designer, watchmaker, and historian; Rebecca is half of the founding husband and wife team behind Struthers Watchmakers studio and workshops.

‘An exquisite book, beautifully put together.’ Stephen Fry

‘Forty-thousand years of our relationship with time condensed into 288 pages: a hugely entertaining achievement.’ Esquire

Struthers’ first book, Hands of Time, has received critical acclaim and became a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week. This watchmaker’s history welcomes you into the hidden world of watchmaking, and to our relationship with time that spans centuries and continents.

The invention of timepieces was more significant for human culture than the printing press, or even the wheel. They have travelled the world with us, from the depths of the oceans to the summit of Everest, and even to the Moon. They regulate our daily lives and have sculpted the social and economic development of society in surprising and dramatic ways.

From her workshop bench, Struthers explores the ways in which timekeeping has indelibly shaped our attitudes to work, leisure, trade, politics, exploration and mortality, and introduces us to some extraordinary devices, each with their own story to tell. Hands of Time is an intricate exploration of the history, science, philosophy, and craft of timekeeping.

Rebecca will be joining one of our panel talks: Previous professions and impact on writing...

Hear from four authors Mark Eklid, Rebecca Struthers, Punam Farmah and Enkel Asamatjai discuss previous professions and their impact on writing. For many of our authors writing is part of a rich and varied work life - find out how being an author has changed other jobs they hold and vice versa!

Date: Sat 07 Jun | Dove Room, Moorlands House
Time: 14:00 – 14:30
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/panel-previous-professions-and-impact-on-writing

Check out the mix of authors we have joining us this year.
We have a mixture of wholesome romance, fantasy romance, spicy and more....

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/meettheauthors

The link above will take you to our meet the authors page. Here you can read about the authors and books, helping you decide what talks you might go to, and which authors you want to meet in the author hub.
This part of the festival will all be on the 7th of June from 10am - 4pm in the council moorlands room (same as last year)
Children's is all in the Foxlowe apart from our headline evening event for adults thats in the Foxlowe Saturday 7th in the evening.
Next up... Romance

Check out the mix of authors we have joining us this year.
We have a mixture of wholesome romance, fantasy romance, spicy and more....

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/meettheauthors

The link above will take you to our meet the authors page. Here you can read about the authors and books, helping you decide what talks you might go to, and which authors you want to meet in the author hub.
This part of the festival will all be on the 7th of June from 10am - 4pm in the council moorlands room (same as last year)
Children's is all in the Foxlowe apart from our headline evening event for adults thats in the Foxlowe Saturday 7th in the evening.
Next up... Romance

”...Right there in the middle of the middle row is my diminutive mum. How very special she must have been to hold her own in that male world.”

(Music, Mum and Me by Maggie Pollard/family music-making in a brass band)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.
Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#writingthatsings #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #brassband

”...Right there in the middle of the middle row is my diminutive mum. How very special she must have been to hold her own in that male world.”

(Music, Mum and Me by Maggie Pollard/family music-making in a brass band)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.
Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#writingthatsings #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #brassband

“My mum should never have been born into a working class family. My first husband said she was ‘one of Nature’s aristocrats...”

(Music, Mum and Me by Maggie Pollard/family music-making in a brass band)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#writingthatsings #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #brassband

“My mum should never have been born into a working class family. My first husband said she was ‘one of Nature’s aristocrats...”

(Music, Mum and Me by Maggie Pollard/family music-making in a brass band)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#writingthatsings #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #brassband

Excited to have @bamboozlebird join us for our festival on the 7th of June.
You can check the book out before the festival at @moorlandslibraries Leek Library has a copy or you can purchase your own on their website. https://www.boozlebird.com/

Heard of sparrows? I bet you have and seagulls, magpies and pigeons too! But Bam Boozle birds? Maybe not... Well here's your chance to catch a glimpse into their wacky world!

Author: Eileen Morrison

Illustrator: Tommy Morrison

This lovely story is the creation of a mother and son duo! What a team.

Join us on the 7th of June to meet the team and many other children's authors and events. Check them all out and book your space on children's workshops at
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/childrensfest2025

Link above takes you directly to the children's section of the festival.

#leek #leeknow #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #bimbamboozle #childrensbooks #childrensbookstagram #childrensbooks #childrensbooks📚

Excited to have @bamboozlebird join us for our festival on the 7th of June.
You can check the book out before the festival at @moorlandslibraries Leek Library has a copy or you can purchase your own on their website. https://www.boozlebird.com/

Heard of sparrows? I bet you have and seagulls, magpies and pigeons too! But Bam Boozle birds? Maybe not... Well here's your chance to catch a glimpse into their wacky world!

Author: Eileen Morrison

Illustrator: Tommy Morrison

This lovely story is the creation of a mother and son duo! What a team.

Join us on the 7th of June to meet the team and many other children's authors and events. Check them all out and book your space on children's workshops at
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/childrensfest2025

Link above takes you directly to the children's section of the festival.

#leek #leeknow #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #bimbamboozle #childrensbooks #childrensbookstagram #childrensbooks #childrensbooks📚

Children's talk & workshop with Gary Fyles

Talk: ThinkingBigger at bedtime, how to read stories to accelerate learning.
Venue : Foxlowe
Time: 10:00 – 10:45

&

Workshop: “Fail Safe poetry” ...... Very interactive. Lots of fun.
Venue : Foxlowe
Time: 11:30 -12

Book here https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/garyfyles

Gary Fyles was a primary school teacher and leader for over twenty years, in the UK and in Vietnam, gaining a wealth of experience in motivating children and colleagues to be the best they could be. His work in teaching 'growth mindset' to children led him to saying 'I can be an Author' and his books now provide inspiration for many, young and old.

He still works largely in schools, bringing his energy to awaken students desire to read, learn and aspire for more. The 'growth mindset' and 'deeper thinking' messages in his books so far provide excellent discussion points for classrooms, support groups and even boardrooms. A true jack of all trades, Gary has been a scientist, magician and kung fu teacher.

He's now a author, illustrator, mindset coach and performs funk and soul covers on an acoustic guitar in bars that let him. His company ThinkingBigger Ltd now supports young authors and artists from marginalised groups to fulfil their dreams of making books.

#Leeklovesbooks2025 #metacognition #childrensbooks #growthmindset #growthmindsetforkids #growthmindsetclassroom #puppets #picturebooks #growthmindset #resilience #popupcards #cardcommissions #ks2geographyresources #metacognitionbooks #mindset #perseverance

Children's talk & workshop with Gary Fyles

Talk: ThinkingBigger at bedtime, how to read stories to accelerate learning.
Venue : Foxlowe
Time: 10:00 – 10:45

&

Workshop: “Fail Safe poetry” ...... Very interactive. Lots of fun.
Venue : Foxlowe
Time: 11:30 -12

Book here https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/garyfyles

Gary Fyles was a primary school teacher and leader for over twenty years, in the UK and in Vietnam, gaining a wealth of experience in motivating children and colleagues to be the best they could be. His work in teaching 'growth mindset' to children led him to saying 'I can be an Author' and his books now provide inspiration for many, young and old.

He still works largely in schools, bringing his energy to awaken students desire to read, learn and aspire for more. The 'growth mindset' and 'deeper thinking' messages in his books so far provide excellent discussion points for classrooms, support groups and even boardrooms. A true jack of all trades, Gary has been a scientist, magician and kung fu teacher.

He's now a author, illustrator, mindset coach and performs funk and soul covers on an acoustic guitar in bars that let him. His company ThinkingBigger Ltd now supports young authors and artists from marginalised groups to fulfil their dreams of making books.

#Leeklovesbooks2025 #metacognition #childrensbooks #growthmindset #growthmindsetforkids #growthmindsetclassroom #puppets #picturebooks #growthmindset #resilience #popupcards #cardcommissions #ks2geographyresources #metacognitionbooks #mindset #perseverance

This is an exciting event on the 12th May at 7pm!

For Mental Health Awareness Week Staffordshire County Council, The Community Foundation and Borderland Voices are hosting an event.

Wellbeing in art and writing.

Bring along and share writing that inspires your wellbeing.

This event is taking place in the Leek Quaker Meeting House.

#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #mentalhealthawareness❤️ #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025

This is an exciting event on the 12th May at 7pm!

For Mental Health Awareness Week Staffordshire County Council, The Community Foundation and Borderland Voices are hosting an event.

Wellbeing in art and writing.

Bring along and share writing that inspires your wellbeing.

This event is taking place in the Leek Quaker Meeting House.

#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #mentalhealthawareness❤️ #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025

One month until our festival!

We are pleased to share our writing workshop hosted by the lovely local u3a is happening again at this years festival.

Book through our website - spaces are free but limited to 15 so book to avoid missing out.
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/writing-workshop

You do not need to be a member of u3a to join this event open to all.

The theme this year is musical. Bring along a a favourite first line or memorable line from a song... what will happen next... come along to find out.

#creativewriting #creativewriting🌸 #creativewritingclass #creativewritingworkshop #creativewritingchallenge #U3A #u3auk #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025

One month until our festival!

We are pleased to share our writing workshop hosted by the lovely local u3a is happening again at this years festival.

Book through our website - spaces are free but limited to 15 so book to avoid missing out.
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/writing-workshop

You do not need to be a member of u3a to join this event open to all.

The theme this year is musical. Bring along a a favourite first line or memorable line from a song... what will happen next... come along to find out.

#creativewriting #creativewriting🌸 #creativewritingclass #creativewritingworkshop #creativewritingchallenge #U3A #u3auk #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025

Children's workshops with Author, Illustrator and educator Matt Buckingham!

Join Matt with exciting storytelling, an intriguing look through Matt’s own artwork and inspiration followed by an engaging child-led activity based on story and character development. Art workshops include making anything from books, character masks, cards and group collages.

We have two workshops with Matt one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

These are free and being held in the Foxlowe so book now to avoid missing out:)
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/mattbuckingham

11:00 – 11:30
13:00 – 13:30

Full children's programme available to view at https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/childrensfest2025

#illustration #childrensbookillustration #childrensbookart #artwork #mural #muralart #stokeontrent #staffordshire #illustration #illustrator #childrensbookillustrator #childrensbookillustration #childrensbooks #leeklovesbooks2025

Children's workshops with Author, Illustrator and educator Matt Buckingham!

Join Matt with exciting storytelling, an intriguing look through Matt’s own artwork and inspiration followed by an engaging child-led activity based on story and character development. Art workshops include making anything from books, character masks, cards and group collages.

We have two workshops with Matt one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

These are free and being held in the Foxlowe so book now to avoid missing out:)
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/mattbuckingham

11:00 – 11:30
13:00 – 13:30

Full children's programme available to view at https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/childrensfest2025

#illustration #childrensbookillustration #childrensbookart #artwork #mural #muralart #stokeontrent #staffordshire #illustration #illustrator #childrensbookillustrator #childrensbookillustration #childrensbooks #leeklovesbooks2025

Local Author Talk
Lindsey Porter
Railways and Tramways of the Staffordshire Moorlands

Book your free place at this talk: https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/lindsey-porter-author-talk

Date: 07 Jun 2025
Time: 10:00 – 10:30
Venue: Moorlands House

The Staffordshire Moorlands saw the development of many horse-drawn railway lines. These included the first line to be made into a legislative enactment. In the 1880's a line almost a mile long existed underground at the Ecton copper mine much of this is still intact. Hear all about these lines and more at Lindsey Porters talk on the 7th June at the Leek Loves Books festival.

Local Author Talk
Lindsey Porter
Railways and Tramways of the Staffordshire Moorlands

Book your free place at this talk: https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/lindsey-porter-author-talk

Date: 07 Jun 2025
Time: 10:00 – 10:30
Venue: Moorlands House

The Staffordshire Moorlands saw the development of many horse-drawn railway lines. These included the first line to be made into a legislative enactment. In the 1880's a line almost a mile long existed underground at the Ecton copper mine much of this is still intact. Hear all about these lines and more at Lindsey Porters talk on the 7th June at the Leek Loves Books festival.

Tickets are getting booked fast for this comedy night.

Our second Andy Gilbert night in Leek! Be prepared to laugh so hard you might cry.

30 May 2025, 19:30
Venue: Spout Brew House

Book your free ticket through our website:
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/andy-gilbert-comedy-night

Tickets are getting booked fast for this comedy night.

Our second Andy Gilbert night in Leek! Be prepared to laugh so hard you might cry.

30 May 2025, 19:30
Venue: Spout Brew House

Book your free ticket through our website:
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/andy-gilbert-comedy-night

“...I’d like to say more, only space won’t allow, wrote Jack. Was the card signed? Love? His kisses to Gina? The weather has cleared up nicely, he wrote.”
(Om, Pom, Pom by A.T. Boyle/seaside postcard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.

Come and sing along with the seaside characters in the first outing of a new audio play Om, Pom, Pom at 7pm on the 7th of June at The Foxlowe.

We're inviting your feedback on the pilot performance and there's an opportunity to get involved in the play's development. Come and chat to us at the event:

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

“...I’d like to say more, only space won’t allow, wrote Jack. Was the card signed? Love? His kisses to Gina? The weather has cleared up nicely, he wrote.”
(Om, Pom, Pom by A.T. Boyle/seaside postcard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.

Come and sing along with the seaside characters in the first outing of a new audio play Om, Pom, Pom at 7pm on the 7th of June at The Foxlowe.

We're inviting your feedback on the pilot performance and there's an opportunity to get involved in the play's development. Come and chat to us at the event:

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

“How’s the future looking from there, friend? Knowing the world from a single room. Seaside, sea, people out there plenty. Always the weather. And wish you were here...”
(Om, Pom, Pom by A.T. Boyle/seaside postcard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

Come and sing along with the seaside characters in the first outing of a new audio play Om, Pom, Pom at 7pm on the 7th of June at The Foxlowe.

We're inviting your feedback on the pilot performance and there's an opportunity to get involved in the play's development. Come and chat to us at the event:

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#leeklovesbooks #reading #leeklovesbooks2025 #StorytellingMagic #poetrylovers #poetrycommunity

“How’s the future looking from there, friend? Knowing the world from a single room. Seaside, sea, people out there plenty. Always the weather. And wish you were here...”
(Om, Pom, Pom by A.T. Boyle/seaside postcard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

Come and sing along with the seaside characters in the first outing of a new audio play Om, Pom, Pom at 7pm on the 7th of June at The Foxlowe.

We're inviting your feedback on the pilot performance and there's an opportunity to get involved in the play's development. Come and chat to us at the event:

https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#leeklovesbooks #reading #leeklovesbooks2025 #StorytellingMagic #poetrylovers #poetrycommunity

Early Years workshops for parents and children!

Book your place here
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/the-reading-fairy

Date: 07 Jun 2025
Time: 14:00 – 14:40
Venue: Foxlowe

You may have seen The Reading Fairy at the Leek Wow Hub, they are putting on one free session for ages 1-5 years old in the Rainbow room in the Foxlowe at our festival :)

Created by early reading experts, Reading Fairy classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children lay the foundation for learning to read and loving books for life.

We believe in learning through play and our action-packed classes across the UK and online include: fun phonics and word games; sensory and performance storytelling; interactive songs and nursery rhymes; speaking and listening activities; picture book time and more!

Early Years workshops for parents and children!

Book your place here
https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/the-reading-fairy

Date: 07 Jun 2025
Time: 14:00 – 14:40
Venue: Foxlowe

You may have seen The Reading Fairy at the Leek Wow Hub, they are putting on one free session for ages 1-5 years old in the Rainbow room in the Foxlowe at our festival :)

Created by early reading experts, Reading Fairy classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children lay the foundation for learning to read and loving books for life.

We believe in learning through play and our action-packed classes across the UK and online include: fun phonics and word games; sensory and performance storytelling; interactive songs and nursery rhymes; speaking and listening activities; picture book time and more!

Children's events!

We are very lucky to have two workshops for children aged 6+ with Marc. These are free and with limited numbers. Book their space through our website.

Workshop 1 : 12 noon till 12:45 pm
Workshop 2 : 2:15 pm till 3:00 pm

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/marcmakescomics

Join cartoonist Marc Jackson (BEANO, the Phoenix, GOOF) as you learn how to cut loose and make comics! Marc’s lively, and off-beat approach to cartooning will help you unlock your inner cartoonist as you discover the joys of comics and how to make them.

Ages 6+

Marc Jackson is a cartoonist from the UK who has created characters and comics for BEANO, the Phoenix, Hey Kids Comics, and is the publisher of GOOF, a new comic for kids young and old! Marc also runs ROOM FOR COMICS (a comic art studio in Macclesfield, Cheshire) with his wife Jane, dedicated to the teaching of comics and cartoon art. They also organise MACC-POW! Macclesfield’s annual comic art festival now in its 10th year!

Important Notice to Parents and Carers

For the safety and enjoyment of all, we ask that parents and carers remain with their children throughout the event. Children should not be left unsupervised and must stay with their parent/carer at all times. This ensures a safe and organized experience for everyone.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Children's events!

We are very lucky to have two workshops for children aged 6+ with Marc. These are free and with limited numbers. Book their space through our website.

Workshop 1 : 12 noon till 12:45 pm
Workshop 2 : 2:15 pm till 3:00 pm

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/marcmakescomics

Join cartoonist Marc Jackson (BEANO, the Phoenix, GOOF) as you learn how to cut loose and make comics! Marc’s lively, and off-beat approach to cartooning will help you unlock your inner cartoonist as you discover the joys of comics and how to make them.

Ages 6+

Marc Jackson is a cartoonist from the UK who has created characters and comics for BEANO, the Phoenix, Hey Kids Comics, and is the publisher of GOOF, a new comic for kids young and old! Marc also runs ROOM FOR COMICS (a comic art studio in Macclesfield, Cheshire) with his wife Jane, dedicated to the teaching of comics and cartoon art. They also organise MACC-POW! Macclesfield’s annual comic art festival now in its 10th year!

Important Notice to Parents and Carers

For the safety and enjoyment of all, we ask that parents and carers remain with their children throughout the event. Children should not be left unsupervised and must stay with their parent/carer at all times. This ensures a safe and organized experience for everyone.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Author talks and panels are live and getting booked up.
These will be taking place next to the author hub in the moorlands house on the 7th June.

Head to leeklovesbooks.com to book your place now.

📚

Author talks and panels are live and getting booked up.
These will be taking place next to the author hub in the moorlands house on the 7th June.

Head to leeklovesbooks.com to book your place now.

📚

2 tickets left before this popular show is sold out!

Weeping Bank Library is proud to bring the chilling tales of The Librarian to Staffordshire Moorlands with Leek Loves Books.

Event: 'Way Marker' from Weeping Bank

Venue: Quaker Meeting House, Leek, Leek

Date: Tuesday 3rd June 2025, 6:30PM - 8:30PM

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/weeping-bank

'It's hard to explain what happens - they don't use gimmicks or music.

In essence it's just a reading - but you are right there in the story - heartbeats quicken - tension ratchets up & people jump. There is nothing like it - you will feel the fear.'

'It's hard to explain what happens - they don't use gimmicks or music.

In essence it's just a reading - but you are right there in the story - heartbeats quicken - tension ratchets up & people jump. There is nothing like it - you will feel the fear.'

Warning - Weeping Bank readings contain moments of heightened tension. The reading is unsuitable for anyone under the age of 15. We strongly advise those of a nervous disposition to think very seriously before attending.

2 tickets left before this popular show is sold out!

Weeping Bank Library is proud to bring the chilling tales of The Librarian to Staffordshire Moorlands with Leek Loves Books.

Event: 'Way Marker' from Weeping Bank

Venue: Quaker Meeting House, Leek, Leek

Date: Tuesday 3rd June 2025, 6:30PM - 8:30PM

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/weeping-bank

'It's hard to explain what happens - they don't use gimmicks or music.

In essence it's just a reading - but you are right there in the story - heartbeats quicken - tension ratchets up & people jump. There is nothing like it - you will feel the fear.'

'It's hard to explain what happens - they don't use gimmicks or music.

In essence it's just a reading - but you are right there in the story - heartbeats quicken - tension ratchets up & people jump. There is nothing like it - you will feel the fear.'

Warning - Weeping Bank readings contain moments of heightened tension. The reading is unsuitable for anyone under the age of 15. We strongly advise those of a nervous disposition to think very seriously before attending.

We are thrilled to give you three new workshops taking place in collaboration with @thecreativeclubevents for the Leek Loves Books 2025 festival.

You can check them out on either our website or go straight to the creative club to book your space.

We are thrilled to give you three new workshops taking place in collaboration with @thecreativeclubevents for the Leek Loves Books 2025 festival.

You can check them out on either our website or go straight to the creative club to book your space.

Blackout Poetry Bash Workshop
Limited number of tickets available book here: https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/blackout-poetry-bash-workshop/

Join local artist and creative mentor, Jools Teare at this creative workshop designed to spark imagination and celebrate the written word at the Leek Loves Books Festival on Saturday 7th June – This is a ticketed event with limited spaces, so booking is essential.

Best for: All ages, beginners to creatives, poetry lovers and anyone seeking a unique artistic outlet! (Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult).

What to expect: Participants use old book pages to craft unique poetry by blacking out unwanted text and enhancing their creations with artistic flourishes to make a personalised piece of blackout poetry art to take home.

Jools Teare is an artist and creative mentor with a passion for celebrating individuality and creativity. Jools specialises in interactive workshops that engage participants of all ages and skill levels. Her workshops focus upon blending artistic exploration and literary inspiration, creating memorable experiences that align perfectly with the spirit of the Leek Loves Books Festival.

Blackout Poetry Bash Workshop
Limited number of tickets available book here: https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/blackout-poetry-bash-workshop/

Join local artist and creative mentor, Jools Teare at this creative workshop designed to spark imagination and celebrate the written word at the Leek Loves Books Festival on Saturday 7th June – This is a ticketed event with limited spaces, so booking is essential.

Best for: All ages, beginners to creatives, poetry lovers and anyone seeking a unique artistic outlet! (Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult).

What to expect: Participants use old book pages to craft unique poetry by blacking out unwanted text and enhancing their creations with artistic flourishes to make a personalised piece of blackout poetry art to take home.

Jools Teare is an artist and creative mentor with a passion for celebrating individuality and creativity. Jools specialises in interactive workshops that engage participants of all ages and skill levels. Her workshops focus upon blending artistic exploration and literary inspiration, creating memorable experiences that align perfectly with the spirit of the Leek Loves Books Festival.

Leek Loves Books Headline evening performance!
Tickets for sale now.
Go to the Foxlowe website to purchase yours today. https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

Tongue Tied & Twisted
Indian tales with a contemporary twist

Tongue Tied & Twisted blasts Indian storytelling into the 21st century combining the talents of UK music producer PKCtheFirst on stage with international performer
@PeterChand.

"How many of the sisters will the wild jackals spare…what becomes of the foolish
man who thought he was dead….and what is the haunting message that a dove
sings across time and space"

Experience two distinctive artists bringing a fresh UK twist on traditional tales collected from South Asian elders. This show celebrates the art of live storytelling
fusing a unique blend of Urban Hip Hop and classical South Asian sounds. Together, Peter and PKCtheFirst present a unique audience experience which bridges cultures and generations.

‘No words to express how fantastic it was. All I can say is WOW!!! I couldn't sleep ...
Was still thinking of those stories’ Alchemy Festival Southbank Centre London

Suitable for adults (and 14 years and over)
*A co-production with Black Country Touring and Peter Chand in partnership with Creative Black Country supported by Heritage Lottery Fund.

www.peterchand.com
https://www.instagram.com/pkcthefirst/?hl=en

Leek Loves Books Headline evening performance!
Tickets for sale now.
Go to the Foxlowe website to purchase yours today. https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

Tongue Tied & Twisted
Indian tales with a contemporary twist

Tongue Tied & Twisted blasts Indian storytelling into the 21st century combining the talents of UK music producer PKCtheFirst on stage with international performer
@PeterChand.

"How many of the sisters will the wild jackals spare…what becomes of the foolish
man who thought he was dead….and what is the haunting message that a dove
sings across time and space"

Experience two distinctive artists bringing a fresh UK twist on traditional tales collected from South Asian elders. This show celebrates the art of live storytelling
fusing a unique blend of Urban Hip Hop and classical South Asian sounds. Together, Peter and PKCtheFirst present a unique audience experience which bridges cultures and generations.

‘No words to express how fantastic it was. All I can say is WOW!!! I couldn't sleep ...
Was still thinking of those stories’ Alchemy Festival Southbank Centre London

Suitable for adults (and 14 years and over)
*A co-production with Black Country Touring and Peter Chand in partnership with Creative Black Country supported by Heritage Lottery Fund.

www.peterchand.com
https://www.instagram.com/pkcthefirst/?hl=en

“… Bread, bread, and more bread for every meal. Toast for breakfast, lunch, and dinner too – what a deal.”

(Photograph of a performer of the Ottam Thullall, copyright Smita Tharoor)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting next weekend.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#StorytellingMagic #StorytellingMatters #southasianheritageweek #leek #staffordshiremoorlands #handwritten #handwrittenletter

“… Bread, bread, and more bread for every meal. Toast for breakfast, lunch, and dinner too – what a deal.”

(Photograph of a performer of the Ottam Thullall, copyright Smita Tharoor)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting next weekend.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#StorytellingMagic #StorytellingMatters #southasianheritageweek #leek #staffordshiremoorlands #handwritten #handwrittenletter

“They say ‘thank you, thank you’ for everything small. And ‘sorry, sorry’ when things go wrong at all…”

(Text of an Ottam Thullall poem written in Malayalam by Chandran Tharoor, copyright @smitatharoor

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com
@Nutkhut.UK
@punamramchurn
@sabrinashahstories

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#StorytellingMagic #StorytellingMatters #southasianheritageweek #leek #staffordshiremoorlands #handwritten #handwrittenletter #bookish
#bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #bookphotography
#instabook #bookcommunity #bibliophile #booknerd
#bookaddict #bookstagrammer #reading

“They say ‘thank you, thank you’ for everything small. And ‘sorry, sorry’ when things go wrong at all…”

(Text of an Ottam Thullall poem written in Malayalam by Chandran Tharoor, copyright @smitatharoor

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
Leeklovesbooks.com
@Nutkhut.UK
@punamramchurn
@sabrinashahstories

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

#StorytellingMagic #StorytellingMatters #southasianheritageweek #leek #staffordshiremoorlands #handwritten #handwrittenletter #bookish
#bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #bookphotography
#instabook #bookcommunity #bibliophile #booknerd
#bookaddict #bookstagrammer #reading

Tickets available at the Foxlowe website for all our chargeable events.
Get yours now 📚🙌

Tickets available at the Foxlowe website for all our chargeable events.
Get yours now 📚🙌

Join our Writing That Sings creative writing workshop

Saturday 14th June 2025

11.00 - 12.30

Wirksworth Library
Coldwell St, Wirksworth, Matlock DE4 4EU
Phone: 01629 533730

Bring an object that inspires your musical memories. This might be a songbook or a song from the past, an outdoor sound, or a piece of music that still makes you get up and dance.

In the workshop conversation Maggie Pollard and A.T. Boyle will encourage your happy memories to flow, perhaps as a way to address feelings of loss.

You will go home with some imaginative writing about your object that you can develop into a longer piece and chat to others about.

At the end of the session Maggie and Alison will perform excerpts from the Writing That Sings writing commissions that are part of Leek Book Festival 2025.

You can join in with our singing of snatches of music woven through the workshop, and you are welcome to just listen.

If you are shy but want your writing to be shared, Maggie is happy to perform short excerpts for you.

FREE to take part.
If you are able to afford it, a donation of around £5 per person is requested for a workshop place, which goes towards the cost of setting up and running the workshop.

www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

#leek #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #StorytellingMagic #handwritten #StorytellingMatters #illustration #reading

Join our Writing That Sings creative writing workshop

Saturday 14th June 2025

11.00 - 12.30

Wirksworth Library
Coldwell St, Wirksworth, Matlock DE4 4EU
Phone: 01629 533730

Bring an object that inspires your musical memories. This might be a songbook or a song from the past, an outdoor sound, or a piece of music that still makes you get up and dance.

In the workshop conversation Maggie Pollard and A.T. Boyle will encourage your happy memories to flow, perhaps as a way to address feelings of loss.

You will go home with some imaginative writing about your object that you can develop into a longer piece and chat to others about.

At the end of the session Maggie and Alison will perform excerpts from the Writing That Sings writing commissions that are part of Leek Book Festival 2025.

You can join in with our singing of snatches of music woven through the workshop, and you are welcome to just listen.

If you are shy but want your writing to be shared, Maggie is happy to perform short excerpts for you.

FREE to take part.
If you are able to afford it, a donation of around £5 per person is requested for a workshop place, which goes towards the cost of setting up and running the workshop.

www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

#leek #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #StorytellingMagic #handwritten #StorytellingMatters #illustration #reading

“… and leather buckled shoes factory lads like him had to borrow from the wardrobe mistress of the local Gilbert & Sullivan society.”
(Text and photograph copyright A.T. Boyle. Terry Boyle acting the role of jester Jack Point in The Yeoman of The Guard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.
Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

“… and leather buckled shoes factory lads like him had to borrow from the wardrobe mistress of the local Gilbert & Sullivan society.”
(Text and photograph copyright A.T. Boyle. Terry Boyle acting the role of jester Jack Point in The Yeoman of The Guard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.
Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

“In short, acting allowed him to wear a thick cotton wool wig on top of his quiffed Fifties hair, flamboyant laced cuffs and collars…”

(Text and photograph copyright A.T. Boyle. Terry Boyle acting the role of jester Jack Point in The Yeoman of The Guard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

“In short, acting allowed him to wear a thick cotton wool wig on top of his quiffed Fifties hair, flamboyant laced cuffs and collars…”

(Text and photograph copyright A.T. Boyle. Terry Boyle acting the role of jester Jack Point in The Yeoman of The Guard)

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

Tickets now live for our Writing that Sings workshop and evening performance. Go to Foxlowe events:
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/writing-that-sings-exobjects-workshop/
+
https://foxloweartscentre.org.uk/events/tongue-tied-twisted-blasts-indian-storytelling-into-the-21st-century/

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

We are thrilled to invite to you to Spout Brew House on the 30th May for our second comedy night with Andy Gilbert.

7:30pm @ Spout

"I cried with laughter"

"Can't remember the last time I laughed this much"

This event was such a laugh last year and same as last year it's free!

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/andy-gilbert-comedy-night

#leek #leeklovesbooks #leekcomedy #spoutbrewhouse #spoutbrewhouseleek

We are thrilled to invite to you to Spout Brew House on the 30th May for our second comedy night with Andy Gilbert.

7:30pm @ Spout

"I cried with laughter"

"Can't remember the last time I laughed this much"

This event was such a laugh last year and same as last year it's free!

https://www.leeklovesbooks.com/event-details-registration/andy-gilbert-comedy-night

#leek #leeklovesbooks #leekcomedy #spoutbrewhouse #spoutbrewhouseleek

Our first stage of ticket sales are live at the Foxlowe!

📝 Writing that sings workshop with @ex.objects

🗓️ 31st May 2025
🕚 11:00 am
🦊 🏫 Foxlowe Arts Centre
💷 £10 per person
🔟 10 tickets available

Bring an object connected with a happy musical or sound memory. Join this creative writing workshop and find inspiration to write connected directly to you and your object.

We are offering two complimentary workshop tickets to individuals who are disabled, earn low wages, or are currently unemployed.

Potential recipients can email their name, address and brief reason for the request to either:

artificialsilkorg@gmail.com or LLB.

Next we have......

🍾 Leek Loves Books Festival Afternoon Tea

Join Leek Loves Books for a Festival Afternoon Tea on the Terrace at the Foxlowe on Saturday 7th June between 3pm-6pm.

This is pre-bookable directly through the Foxlowe up to 48 hours before.

🗓️ 7th June (main festival day)
🕚 3pm
Age limit: Adults only event
🦊 🏫 Foxlowe Arts Centre
£18 plus a glass of fizz
£25 plus 200ml bottle Prosecco

Following this on the 7th we have our headline act.....

Tongue Tied & Twisted blasts Indian storytelling into the 21st century.

Fresh UK twist on traditional tales collected from South Asian elders. This show celebrates the art of live storytelling. Together, Peter and PKCtheFirst present a unique audience experience which bridges cultures and generations.

Support
Join favourite spoken word poet Maggie Pollard, the director of Leek Loves Books Sam Hatton, and published writer and local director of Artificial Silk A.T. Boyle for the premiere of her audio play Om, Pom, Pom.
This will be followed by a short film about the musical memories of residents at the Daisy Haye care home in Leek, interviewed by students from The Meadows School as part of their communication development.

🗓️ 7th June 2025 (Main festival day)
🕚 7pm (Doors at 6pm)
🦊 🏫 Foxlowe Arts Centre
£15

I've run out of word count so I'll do a separate post for Rogers poetry event and the meet the authors evening 😂 All bookable through the Foxlowe 📚🥰

#leeklovesbooks2025 #poetry #visitleek #leekcommunity #staffordshiremoorlands

Our first stage of ticket sales are live at the Foxlowe!

📝 Writing that sings workshop with @ex.objects

🗓️ 31st May 2025
🕚 11:00 am
🦊 🏫 Foxlowe Arts Centre
💷 £10 per person
🔟 10 tickets available

Bring an object connected with a happy musical or sound memory. Join this creative writing workshop and find inspiration to write connected directly to you and your object.

We are offering two complimentary workshop tickets to individuals who are disabled, earn low wages, or are currently unemployed.

Potential recipients can email their name, address and brief reason for the request to either:

artificialsilkorg@gmail.com or LLB.

Next we have......

🍾 Leek Loves Books Festival Afternoon Tea

Join Leek Loves Books for a Festival Afternoon Tea on the Terrace at the Foxlowe on Saturday 7th June between 3pm-6pm.

This is pre-bookable directly through the Foxlowe up to 48 hours before.

🗓️ 7th June (main festival day)
🕚 3pm
Age limit: Adults only event
🦊 🏫 Foxlowe Arts Centre
£18 plus a glass of fizz
£25 plus 200ml bottle Prosecco

Following this on the 7th we have our headline act.....

Tongue Tied & Twisted blasts Indian storytelling into the 21st century.

Fresh UK twist on traditional tales collected from South Asian elders. This show celebrates the art of live storytelling. Together, Peter and PKCtheFirst present a unique audience experience which bridges cultures and generations.

Support
Join favourite spoken word poet Maggie Pollard, the director of Leek Loves Books Sam Hatton, and published writer and local director of Artificial Silk A.T. Boyle for the premiere of her audio play Om, Pom, Pom.
This will be followed by a short film about the musical memories of residents at the Daisy Haye care home in Leek, interviewed by students from The Meadows School as part of their communication development.

🗓️ 7th June 2025 (Main festival day)
🕚 7pm (Doors at 6pm)
🦊 🏫 Foxlowe Arts Centre
£15

I've run out of word count so I'll do a separate post for Rogers poetry event and the meet the authors evening 😂 All bookable through the Foxlowe 📚🥰

#leeklovesbooks2025 #poetry #visitleek #leekcommunity #staffordshiremoorlands

World Book Night 2025 will take place on 23 April, and you can get involved!

Leek Loves Books and Leek Library are excited to present an evening at Leek Library celebrating World Book Night.

Book via the library by ringing 01538 332061 or emailing leek.library@staffordshire.gov.uk to book your free spot.

Share an all time favourite read and what you are currently reading. Refreshments will be provided.

We are also very lucky that the Library has copies of one of the #quickreads to give away on the night!

In 2025 The Reading Agency are creating a nation of readers, and they are thrilled to feature the new Quick Reads series as the next World Book Night booklist. Quick Reads are short books and great stories by bestselling authors, written in an accessible and easy to read style. They’re a valuable tool for boosting reading skills, confidence and engagement in learning, and have led to thousands of adults reading, completing and enjoying a book for the first time.

So ring or email to book your place now and enjoy World Book Night with other readers in Leek at our beautiful library.
See you on the 23rd! :)

#leeklibrary #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #WorldBookNight

World Book Night 2025 will take place on 23 April, and you can get involved!

Leek Loves Books and Leek Library are excited to present an evening at Leek Library celebrating World Book Night.

Book via the library by ringing 01538 332061 or emailing leek.library@staffordshire.gov.uk to book your free spot.

Share an all time favourite read and what you are currently reading. Refreshments will be provided.

We are also very lucky that the Library has copies of one of the #quickreads to give away on the night!

In 2025 The Reading Agency are creating a nation of readers, and they are thrilled to feature the new Quick Reads series as the next World Book Night booklist. Quick Reads are short books and great stories by bestselling authors, written in an accessible and easy to read style. They’re a valuable tool for boosting reading skills, confidence and engagement in learning, and have led to thousands of adults reading, completing and enjoying a book for the first time.

So ring or email to book your place now and enjoy World Book Night with other readers in Leek at our beautiful library.
See you on the 23rd! :)

#leeklibrary #leeklovesbooks #leeklovesbooks2025 #WorldBookNight

“…which creaked and flexed, disturbing the bowed wood shelves stuffed with out-of-date produce.”
Text and Painting copyright Belinda RushJansen

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
www.leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

“…which creaked and flexed, disturbing the bowed wood shelves stuffed with out-of-date produce.”
Text and Painting copyright Belinda RushJansen

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our posting next weekend.

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
www.leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

Welcome to the first of 12 posts about the fabulous Writing That Sings creative project with new writing, workshops and performances.

“The tin shed shop with its loose handled door would respond to customers stepping over the gaping rotten floorboard…”
Text and Painting copyright Belinda RushJansen

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

Welcome to the first of 12 posts about the fabulous Writing That Sings creative project with new writing, workshops and performances.

“The tin shed shop with its loose handled door would respond to customers stepping over the gaping rotten floorboard…”
Text and Painting copyright Belinda RushJansen

Imagine what comes next…

Watch out for our next posting tomorrow.

https://www.instagram.com/ex.objects/
www.artificialsilk.org
leeklovesbooks.com

"Writing That Sings and exObjects are beautiful, layered projects. Both compelling and deeply affecting." @irenosenokojie
Irenosen Okojie, short story writer and novelist, MBE and winner of the Caine Prize.

New bags have arrived 🥳

New bags have arrived 🥳

Head to leeklovesbooks.com to check out the full programme.
Events that are ready to book tickets are live.

More events to be added as soon as tickets go live.

Heeeee 🥳

Head to leeklovesbooks.com to check out the full programme.
Events that are ready to book tickets are live.

More events to be added as soon as tickets go live.

Heeeee 🥳

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@leek.loves.books

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