Black British Book Festival 2024

Eve: From Ruff Ryders’ First Lady to Hip-Hop Icon - A Journey in Her Own Words

Immerse yourself in the extraordinary life of Eve Jihan Cooper, the ground-breaking, multiplatinum, Grammy Award®–winning rapper, singer-songwriter, actor, mother, and entrepreneur. This exclusive event celebrates the release of her definitive autobiography, Who's That Girl?, a fearless account of her rise from the streets of West Philadelphia to becoming a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of hip-hop.

Uncover the untold stories behind Eve’s chart-topping albums, her historic Grammy win, and the personal battles she faced throughout her journey. With unflinching honesty, Eve reveals the grit, determination, and resilience that propelled her to stardom, as well as the challenges she continues to overcome while balancing her personal and professional life.

This event is perfect for hip-hop fans, pop culture enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by stories of perseverance and triumph.

No Place Like Home: A Journey of Discovery with Charlene White

Join us for an unforgettable morning as award-winning journalist Charlene White takes us on a captivating journey through the heart of cultural identity and belonging. In this exclusive event, Charlene will delve into her personal experiences and career milestones, offering insights into the complexities of identity, community, and the power of storytelling.

As the esteemed anchor of ITV News, Charlene White has not only shaped the narrative of current affairs but has also become a prominent voice in discussions surrounding race, diversity, and inclusion. 

Discover how Charlene navigates the complexities of modern journalism while staying true to her roots and advocating for meaningful change.

A Woman Like Me:  Diane Abbott and Tomorrow’s Leaders

Join us for an enlightening event with trailblazing politician and advocate Diane Abbott, alongside others as they discuss legacy, community, and intergenerational learning in "A Woman Like Me." 

Diane Abbott, the UK's first Black female Member of Parliament, will reflect on her pioneering career and commitment to social justice and equality. Her story of resilience and determination, shaped by her experiences as a daughter of Jamaican immigrants, has left an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape.

Science is Lit: Unleashing the Genius of Big Manny

Prepare to be electrified at "Science is Lit," an exhilarating event featuring the brilliant mind of Big Manny. Join us for a mind-bending journey into the fascinating world of science, where Big Manny will unravel the mysteries of the universe with his unique blend of passion and expertise.

Big Manny, renowned for his ground-breaking contributions to astrophysics and science communication, brings science to life like never before. From black holes to the origins of the cosmos, he makes complex ideas accessible and exciting for audiences of all backgrounds.

Don't miss your chance to witness Big Manny's captivating storytelling and infectious enthusiasm as he demonstrates why science isn't just educational—it's absolutely electrifying.

Love Masterclass: Secrets to Finding Your Perfect Match with Paul Brunson

Join us as we sit down with Paul Brunson, acclaimed author and relationship expert, for an intimate conversation about his latest book, "Find Love." Delve into the intricacies of modern romance and discover Paul's transformative insights on navigating the journey to finding meaningful connections in today's world.

Paul Brunson's expertise extends beyond the pages of his book; as a renowned matchmaker and mentor, he has helped countless individuals discover love and build lasting relationships. In this exclusive event, Paul will share personal anecdotes, practical advice, and the secrets to fostering healthy, fulfilling partnerships.

Good Vibes Only: A Celebration of Spoken Word and Poetry

Join us for an enchanting evening at "Good Vibes Only," a celebration of the magic of spoken word and poetry. This event is dedicated to inspiring and uplifting the community through the power of words. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere where diverse voices intertwine, painting vivid pictures with their words and evoking deep emotions that resonate with the soul.

Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or new to the world of spoken word, this event welcomes all with open arms and open hearts.

Experience the Magic of "A Book of People Like Me" with Joelle Avelino

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure with Joelle Avelino in "A Book of People Like Me." Join us for a heartwarming session where diversity, unity, and individuality shine.

Embark on a journey with Kenny, as he pedals through life on his trusty bike, with his faithful dog, Ketchup. This is a vivid tapestry of humanity, filled with laughter, dreams, and shared experiences.

Joelle Avelino's storytelling and vibrant illustrations invite you to explore bustling city streets and serene countryside landscapes. Meet characters who challenge stereotypes and defy expectations, reminding us of our interconnected world.

Family, 3-7 years.

From Cornrows to Curls: Embrace Your Hair's Beauty with Kimberley Kinloch

Embark on a delightful journey with Kimberley Kinloch as she shares the heartwarming tale of "Me and My Hair."

Meet Kyra, a young girl whose amazing Afro hair holds stories of dreams and resilience. As Kyra opens up about her thoughts and feelings, we are invited to embrace the magic of our unique strands—the curls, coils, and textures that make us all beautifully diverse.

Join us in a magical session where self-love, diversity, and the beauty of our unique identities take center stage.

Family, 6-10 years

Discover Your Inner Hero: 'A Hero Like Me' Storytime!" with Jen Reid

Embark on a journey with Jen Reid as she shares the powerful tale of "A Hero Like Me." 

Follow the story of a courageous young girl who, each day on her way to school, confronts the towering statue of a slave trader—a figure hailed as a hero by some, but seen differently through her eyes.

In this picture book, based on real-life events, our young protagonist grows frustrated with the statue's presence and decides to take action. Through her brave march and vocal stand for justice, she challenges societal norms and encourages young readers to stand up for what is right, even when it's difficult. 

Family, 5-8 years

Intergalactic Fun Awaits with "Marv and the Alien Invasion” with Alex Falase-Koya

Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience with "Marv and the Alien Invasion" by Alex Falase-Koya. When strange lights start appearing in the sky over Marv's hometown, nobody believes his wild theories about an impending alien invasion—except for his best friend, Ellie.

Full of humour, suspense, and heart, "Marv and the Alien Invasion" is a thrilling tale of friendship, bravery, and the power of curiosity. This book is perfect for young explorers and anyone who has ever looked up at the stars and wondered what lies beyond.

Family, 5-7 Years

From Page to Heart: Sisterhood and Self-Discovery in Young Adult Literature

Step into a world of heartfelt journeys and poignant narratives with the captivating YA books "The Thread That Connects Us" by Ayaan Mohamud and "The Love Interest" by Helen Comerford.

Full of emotional depth, humour, and rich cultural insights, these young adult stories are perfect for readers who seek narratives that celebrate diversity, self-discovery, and the power of human connections. "The Thread That Connects Us" and "The Love Interest" are not just tales of family and love but powerful explorations of what it means to find oneself amidst the challenges of life.

‎16 years and up

Health, Healing, and Harmony: The Power of Black Wellness

Step into a transformative exploration of Black wellness at our exclusive panel featuring esteemed voices from the community. Join David Larbi and Giselle La Pompe-Moore for an enlightening discussion that delves deep into the diverse dimensions of well-being, empowerment, and resilience.

Whether you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, or simply a space to connect and learn, this panel is designed to uplift and empower, offering invaluable insights and practical strategies for cultivating health and happiness within the Black Community.

Journey Through Time: Celebrating Black History

Experience the richness of Black history and culture with our compelling Black History Panel, featuring esteemed scholars Zeinab Badawi and Robin Walker and chaired by Kayne Kawasaki. 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, activist, educator, or simply curious, this panel offers a space to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Black heritage. Through engaging discussions, personal anecdotes, and scholarly insights, they will uncover hidden histories, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate the resilience and contributions of Black communities worldwide. 

Money Moves: Navigating Black Financial Empowerment

Join us for an enlightening and impactful Black Finance Panel, where leading experts and innovators will delve into the crucial aspects of financial empowerment within the Black community. 

Panellists Franklin Asante, Bola Sol and Emmanuel Asuquo will highlight practical strategies for wealth creation, the significance of financial literacy, and the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. This is a unique opportunity to gain knowledge, network with like-minded individuals, and be inspired to take actionable steps towards financial independence and community prosperity.

Reclaiming Our Stories: Black Authors in Fiction

Join us for an evening of insightful dialogue, powerful readings, and a celebration of the vibrant storytelling traditions within the Black community, 

Engage in thought-provoking discussions as Shani Akilah and our panellists explore their creative journeys, the challenges they've faced, and the triumphs they've achieved in bringing their stories to life. Whether you are an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or simply passionate about literature, this event promises to enlighten and inspire.

Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate the voices that are redefining the literary landscape.

Frontline Heroes: Black Voices Leading Change

This powerful event brings together leading activists who are driving movements and making a tangible impact in the fight for equality and justice.

Join Mikaela Loach, Tayshan Hayden-Smith and Kwajo Tweneboa as they delve into the pressing issues of our time, from climate justice and community revitalisation to housing rights and social equity. Hear firsthand accounts of their journeys, the obstacles they've overcome, and the victories they've achieved. 

Whether you are a seasoned activist or new to the movement, this panel offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable knowledge, and be motivated to contribute to meaningful change. 

Unlocking Love Stories: Romance Writing with Abiola Bello

Dive into the enchanting world of romance writing with acclaimed author Abiola Bello. In this engaging and practical workshop, you'll learn the essentials of crafting a compelling romance novel. 

Participants will learn how to create relatable characters, build believable romantic tension, and set the perfect scene for love to blossom. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, Abiola's insights will help you craft stories that resonate with readers and bring the magic of romance to life.

Navigating Identity: A Mixed-Race Journey with Natalie Evans, Naomi Evans, Nicole Ocran and Emma Slade

Embark on an enlightening journey with Natalie Evans, Naomi Evans, Emma Slade and Nicole Ocran as they come together for a captivating panel discussion on the mixed-race experience in Britain. 

Immerse yourself in the insightful narratives of Natalie and Naomi, authors and founders of the anti-racist platform Everyday Racism, as they share stories from their book 'The Mixed Race Experience'. Joining them are Emma and Nicole, co-hosts of the award-winning podcast Mixed Up, drawing from their own experiences as they discuss themes from their new book, 'The Half of It.' 

This panel promises to be a powerful exploration of the mixed-race experience, filled with personal anecdotes, engaging discussions, and a shared sense of community.

Young Minds, Big Stories: Children's Story Crafting with Jasmine Richards

Unlock the magical world of children's literature with Jasmine Richards, founder of Storymix, in this hands-on writing workshop. 

In this workshop, participants will delve into the art of crafting engaging and age-appropriate stories for children. Jasmine will guide you through the essentials of developing vibrant characters, creating imaginative worlds, and weaving narratives that resonate with young audiences. Whether you're interested in picture books, early readers, or middle-grade fiction, this workshop will provide valuable insights into the unique challenges and rewards of writing for children.