Laura Ellen Anderson Named New Patron of St Austell Festival of Children’s Literature

Beloved Children’s Author Joins Cornwall Festival Line-Up

The St Austell Festival of Children’s Literature has announced that bestselling author and illustrator Laura Ellen Anderson has been appointed as a new Patron, joining fellow patron A.F. Steadman.

Laura, known for popular series including Amelia Fang, Marnie Midnight and Rainbow Grey, will work closely with the festival team to support its aim of “Making a difference to young lives through the power of reading.”

A familiar face returns

Festival Director Amy Enever welcomed the news, highlighting Laura’s previous involvement with the event.

Amy said:
“We are extremely grateful that Laura Ellen Anderson has agreed to be Patron of our festival. Her imaginative worlds and unforgettable characters delight readers of all ages. Her appearance at last’s year’s festival on both the School and Family days is remembered with gratitude and fondness, and the time, energy, and encouragement she gives to young readers is truly inspiring. We look forward to working together to continue nurturing a love of reading for pleasure and connecting children with the authors and illustrators who spark children’s imaginations.”

Laura also shared her excitement about taking on the role.

She said:
“I am absolutely delighted to be a Patron of the St Austell Festival of Children’s Literature alongside the wonderful A.F. Steadman. Encouraging children to embark upon the magic of reading for pleasure has never been more vital, especially during this National Year of Reading. Discovering the wonders of stories is at the heart of this festival, offering affordable opportunities for children to watch, listen and be inspired by an amazing variety of children’s authors and illustrators. I’m thrilled to be part of something that puts stories at the centre of their vision. I can’t wait to spread the joy and magic of reading and creativity; to let imaginations run wild and bring people together through the power of stories.”

Drawing challenge to launch

As part of her first role as Patron, Laura will launch a children’s drawing challenge. Young artists will be invited to design a magical creature for their own story.

Entries will be displayed during the 2026 festival, with winners receiving a bespoke illustration of their creature created by Laura, along with a collection of her books including the Marnie Midnight, Rainbow Grey and Amelia Fang series.

Laura has also recorded an introductory video encouraging children, families and schools to get involved, while reflecting on her own love of reading.

Festival dates and ticket details

The St Austell Festival of Children’s Literature will take place in June 2026, welcoming more than 25 authors and illustrators to Cornwall.

The Schools Day is set for Friday 12th June 2026, followed by the Family Day on Saturday 13th June 2026. The three-day celebration will feature a range of events designed to inspire a love of reading.

Each event will cost £1.00, with activities held across venues including White River Place, St Austell Library and various pop-up locations around the town.

The full programme will be available in April, with tickets going on sale in mid-April 2026 via the official website: https://www.staustellfestivalofchildrensliterature.com/

More announcements are expected in the lead-up to June as organisers continue to build excitement around the festival.