Georgina Atwell and Liz Binks from Toppsta Towers had a phenomenal time at the Barnes Children’s Literature Festival – London’s largest kids’ books party.

The weekend was jam-packed with fun and creative events from both high profile authors and illustrators such as Lauren Child, Francesca Simon, Axel Scheffler and Michael Rosen, as well as rising stars like Emily Haworth-Booth and Adam Baron. Here are a few photos of these inspiring folk in action…  

There was also, for the first time ever, an event for babies and toddlers – the That’s Not My… sensory show which Liz’s 22-month old daughter loved! The That’s Not My… stories are celebrating their 20^th anniversary this year so it was wonderful to see these special books come to life in such a fun way.

One of the shows that really stood out to us was that of superstar duo Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet, the award-winning creators of Supertato, I Need A Wee and Barry the Fish With Fingers. The room was packed with excited children who delighted in the jokes, readings, quizzes and even songs that the pair performed.

We were also thrilled that the 1,000 Toppsta Reading Records we donated to primary school pupils at Barnes’ free education programme were so well received. This 24-page reading diary helps children to develop not only their writing skills but also an understanding of which books they enjoy reading and why. 

We can’t wait for next year’s Festival. Roll on Saturday 9^th and Sunday 10^th May 2020!