Bradford Literature Festival believes in the life-changing power of literature to raise aspirations and confidence in young people.

In 2023, BLF held the UK’s largest World Book Day event inviting Key Stage 1 and 2 students from across the district to explore a love of words.  

Over 2,200 children from 50 schools and home education environments attended Bradford’s Alhambra Theatre to see award-winning illustrator and author Sophy Henn, rapper MC Grammar, and comedy legend Sir Lenny Henry take to the stage. Stories were brought to life, children were invited up on stage, and even teachers took the plunge by ‘spitting bars’ in front of their students.  

BLF’s World Book Day event, as part of the Education Programme, was completely free to attend and gave the opportunity for Bradford’s students to witness a world-class event in a venue they may not have stepped foot in before. Every child was given a book to take home to read in their own time and at their own pace, encouraging all students to read independently for pleasure.  

Feedback from schools was overwhelmingly positive and the event was covered by The Telegraph and Argus, and featured on BBC Look North.

BLF’s World Book Day 2023 event was a huge success, engaging thousands of students and promoting the life-changing benefits literature and storytelling can have on the daily and future lives of young people in the Bradford district. BLF will continue its partnership with World Book Day, promoting the importance of literature for all.  

Watch highlights from Bradford Literature Festival’s World Book Day 2023 event, held at the historic Alhambra Theatre in Bradford.

To commission, co-produce or fund similar programmes, please get in touch.