An captivating conversation and an awe-inspiring “illustrated concert” with writer and illustrator James Mayhew.

Celebrate the life-changing importance of childhood reading!

We’re thrilled to be welcoming James to Norwich Book Festival. This enchanting evening, taking place in the beautiful Music Room of the Assembly House, will be in two parts.

First, there’ll be an interview with James, when he’ll talk about the importance of childhood reading and how books have shaped his life and career.

Then we’ll be treated to a very unique “illustrated concert” experience — when James will narrate and draw on an easel live in front of you, accompanied by music from violinist Caroline Speca and pianist Will Fergusson. James’ “illustrated concerts” concerts are highly educational, critically acclaimed… and enormous fun!

After the talk and performance, James will take questions from the audience and then be available to sign books (a selection of his books, including his new retelling of Peter and the Wolf some Mouse and Mole titles, and A Symphony of Stories will be on sale).

The Book Hive is presenting this event in partnership with The Norfolk Reading Project (TNRP). TNRP is a vital charity improving literacy standards across the county by training volunteers to support children's reading on a one-to-one basis within Primary Schools. Volunteers are trained to help children decode words with phonics — but also encourage reading for pleasure by talking attentively about books, stories and characters. Since 2015, TNRP has trained over 400 volunteers and now works with more than 50 schools throughout the county.

In 2026 — A National Year of Reading — their efforts are more important than ever. Recent studies showing 1 in 4 children in England leave primary school unable to read well — a figure that rises to over a third here in Norfolk.

All proceeds from public ticket sales of this event will function as a donation, going directly to TNRP to support the incredible work they do.

Made possible by the generosity of the Assembly House Trust.

This event is followed by book sales and signing by The Book Hive.

Wednesday 28th October

In the Music Room at The Assembly House

Doors 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start

Adults £12 | Children £2 | TNRP Volunteers FREE

The event will run for approx. 1 hour, with time for book sales and signing afterwards

Description supplied by the event organiser.