About this Event
Celebrate the life-changing importance of childhood reading!
The Book Hive is thrilled to be welcoming James Mayhew to Norwich Book Festival. This enchanting evening, taking place in the beautiful Noverre Ballroom 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 a story and draw on an easel live in front of you, accompanied by music from violinist Caroline Speca and pianist Will Fergusson. James’ “illustrated concerts” are highly educational, critically acclaimed… and enormous fun!
After the talk and performance (suitable for the whole family), James will take questions from the audience and will 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 . 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 — — their efforts are more important than ever. Recent studies show that 1 in 4 children in England leave primary school unable to read well — a figure that rises to over 1 in 3 here in Norfolk.
All proceeds from 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 .
Wednesday 28th October
In the Novere Ballroom (previously in The Music Room, but we've moved!) 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
*Are you a TNRP Volunteer? Please email The Book Hive with [email protected] with your name and contact details — we'll add you to a guestlist (there's nothing else you need to do).
Event venue & nearby stays
The Assembly House, Theatre Street, Norwich, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.