Welcome to magical worlds

Nathan also promises visitors to Bookniks a “cornucopia of illustration and drawing”, with characterdrawing workshops by Harriet Muncaster, author and illustrator of the Isadora Moon series about a half-fairy, half-vampire, and young cartoon artist Zoom Rockman, creator of Skanky Pigeon.

It was important to Nathan to include illustration in the event. “When it comes to kids’ worlds, they are very visual,” she says. “I love drawing — it lets you be who you want to be.”

In another workshop, writing and illustration come together, as budding junior authors are given the opportunity to create an illustrated book to take home (they are asked to prepare their story ideas in advance).

Bookniks will also offer free dropin events, including puppet shows, crafts and soft play — “a really full afternoon”, says Nathan. There will also be a pop-up bookshop, run by West End Lane Books.

“Reading is such a fantastic thing,” says Nathan. “A book’s different from a screen. There’s something about holding that paper and just diving into that deep well of things. I owe books a lot— they really expanded my mind. I hope all future generations have that joy.”

Bookniks takes place at JW3 on Sunday, February 10, from 1pm to 6pm. Charges apply for workshops and talks, which can be booked at www. jw3.org.uk/bookniks2019, where suggested age ranges are also listed.