Young People’s Literature Festival
The Young People’s Literature Festival held in Theatr Soar, Merthyr Tydfil on 20 October 2011 was the first of its kind in the South Wales Valleys. It celebrated children’s literature – both for children and by children. Its focus was on the enjoyment of creative writing and reading, with workshops and presentations, in both Welsh and English, by some of the best professional authors from Wales and beyond.
Two hundred young people from Primary and Secondary Schools in Merthyr Tydfil attended the Festival, which featured celebrated authorsJez Alborough, Catherine Fisher, Eurig Salisbury, Mererid Hopwood, Phil Carradice, Mike Jenkins and Elen Caldecott.
The Festival used a combination of literature activities including: poetry, short stories and performances. Sessions included a range of activities using different authors’ expertise including:
• Readings
• Writing workshops
• Performance
• Story illustration
• Word and literature related games and activities
The day led into Literature Wales’ strategy on Children and Young People. This includes working with partners throughout Wales to enhance Young People’s Writing Squads, support and development of the Young People’s Laureate for Wales and supporting festivals and events aimed specifically at children and young people.
