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presents...
Dave McCluskey
Dave McCluskey is a writer, illustrator, and creative mentor who believes every child has a story to tell. Through his engaging workshops, he empowers young people to become authors of their very own books encouraging them to dream big, take creative risks, and never wait for permission to create.
With a background in comics, graphic novels, and children’s publishing, Dave helps students unlock their imagination and discover that there’s no such thing as a “wrong” idea just stories waiting to be told.
KS2
Vince Cleghorne
Vince Cleghorne is a Liverpool‑based storyteller, children’s author, illustrator, screenwriter, film director, cartoonist and BBC playwright. He’s written and illustrated vibrant picture books like Bug Soup, I Want to Be a Dino‑Kid!, Mich & Moose, Hoo’s There? and Cock‑a‑Doodle Chicken Noodle, delighting young readers with humour, warmth, and valuable life lessons .
His diverse background in theatre and film informs his vivid, character‑driven narratives .
Vince believes creativity has no limits: his work encourages children to express themselves freely, make bold choices and embrace storytelling without fear of being “wrong.” His engaging style whether in books or workshops, sparks imagination and builds a lifelong love of words and ideas .
KS1 & 2
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Gav Cross
Gav Cross is a storyteller, theatre maker, and “Chief Idiocy Wrangler” known for his playful, interactive performances that delight audiences of all ages. Creator of shows like Twisted Tales for Terrible Children, he brings humour, heart, and a touch of chaos to schools, festivals, and theatres across the UK. With a background in teaching and community engagement, Gav uses stories to spark curiosity, laughter, and connection wherever he goes.
KS2
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Phil Burrows
P N Burrows is a science-fiction and children’s author best known for the Mineran series and the picture book Emily’s First Pet.
Phil delivers engaging school workshops using his new book to help children discover the amazing animals they might find in their own gardens, sparking a love for wildlife and reading alike.
KS2
Keith Farrell - Hema
Keith Farrell is an expert instructor in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), leading Liverpool HEMA a club that teaches swordsmanship, long-sword fencing, wrestling, and other martial arts drawn from historical European sources
With a strong emphasis on technique, safety, body mechanics and history, Keith’s sessions are both mentally and physically engaging: students learn about medieval texts, weapons, footwork, distance, timing - while practising in a supportive, inclusive environment.
KS1, 2 & 3
Jamie Broad
Jamie Broad is a Liverpool based rapper, songwriter and performer who brings sharp lyrics, local flavour and laughter to every workshop. His tracks like "Scousers on Wembley Way", "Still Loading" and "Spoiler Alert" mix humour, reflection and Scouse identity to connect with young audiences.
In workshops, Jamie encourages students to explore rhythm, storytelling and self-expression through rap and creative writing. He’s passionate about helping young people find their own voice, believe in their own stories, and use words to make an impact
KS2 & 3+
Ali Harwood
Ali Harwood is an artist, poet and educator based in Liverpool and Bristol. He authored and illustrated Liverpool Liver Birds, a poetic picture book celebrating the city and its mythical mascots across generations.
As the host of Liver Bards, an open‑mic poetry night, he nurtures voices of all ages and abilities in a welcoming creative space. With over twenty years as a primary school teacher, Ali brings art and poetry into classrooms and community settings fostering confidence, expression, and belonging through hands‑on activities and storytelling.
KS2 & 3
Professor Elemental
Professor Elemental is a steampunk hip-hop emcee, storyteller, and adventurer. Known for his chap-hop anthems and eccentric style, he has entertained audiences around the world with tales of tea, trousers, and time travel. He is the creator of beloved tracks like Fighting Trousers and Cup of Brown Joy, and a regular presence at festivals, conventions, and cabarets. Professor Elemental is a firm favourite among curious minds of all ages and continues to blend humour, music, and madcap invention wherever he goes.
KS2 & 3
Lisa Allen
Lisa J Allen is a children’s author and poet based in Liverpool. Her debut novel, Undercover Angel: Crash Landing, was published in June 2025 and combines comedy, magic, baked goods, and a cast of at least thirteen cats.
She regularly visits schools to bring stories alive and inspire young readers through humour, imagination, and a touch of mythical mayhem
KS2 Years 5/6
Curtis Watt
Curtis Watt is a poet, performer, musician and workshop leader who brings energy, rhythm and creativity into every space he enters.
With a background in spoken word, rap, drumming, theatre and creative writing, Curtis helps young people find their voice and express themselves with confidence. His sessions are lively, inclusive and packed with opportunities to explore language, rhythm and performance - perfect for inspiring pupils of all ages to speak up, stand tall and celebrate who they are.
KS2 & 3
Marie Basting
Marie is a funny, inventive children’s author from Manchester whose debut, Princess BMX , boldly tells kids that “girls like her” can become writers. She writes outrageously fun, myth-inspired stories for children aged 7–11 (and beyond), blending ancient history, fairytales, and contemporary comedy with heart.
Marie is passionate about encouraging children to “defy the limits others put on them”
KS2
Bear Stories
Bear Stories is the creative hub and personal project of Steven from Smethwick, West Midlands. He is a writer, performer and storyteller whose work spans novels, poems, plays, film, and television crafting narratives for readers young and old.
Drawing on his mixed heritage and the inspiring characters he encountered growing up, Steven’s stories celebrate culture, imagination, and human connection. Bear Stories serves as a home for the stories he’s told, the ones he’s developing, and the ideas waiting to be born. Through his workshops, he invites curious minds to explore and join in the storytelling whether by asking questions, sharing ideas, or collaborating creatively.
KS2 & 3
Jessica Bowers
Jessica Bowers is a well-being author, qualified counsellor, and psychotherapist with over a decade of experience supporting children’s emotional development.
Jessica also creates engaging emotional literacy workshops, such as "Get Active With Emotions" that blend storytelling, art, and mental health education in a fun, supportive way
EYFS & KS1
Helen Poole
Helen Poole is an author-illustrator and designer with over 20 years’ experience bringing books to life from the first spark of an idea to the finished printed page. She specialises in rhyming picture books, fact books, joyful characters and humorous stories that delight primary students and younger readers.
In her workshops, Helen encourages creativity, confidence, and expression through both writing and illustration and shows children how their own stories and images can become real books, without limits.
KS1
Jude Lennon
Jude Lennon is a former Early Years teacher who founded the storytelling business Little Lamb Tales. She has published around twenty children’s picture and chapter books, many featuring her mascots Lamby and Flossie including titles like Lamby and the Liver Bird, The Dragon of Allerton Oak, Astronaut Lamby, Glad to Be Dan, and Hal and the End Street.
Passionate about stories, creativity, and reading, Jude delivers workshops in schools on storytelling, creative writing, and author talks to inspire the next generation of readers and writers.
We are proud to have Jude as a Kingsley & Co Patron.
EYFS & KS1
Authors & Artists
Get to know some of the authors and artists involved with the Bootle Children's Literary Festival 2025
Frank Cottrell-Boyce
Frank Cottrell-Boyce is an award-winning children’s author, screenwriter and Children's Laureate known for his funny, thoughtful and imaginative stories. His bestselling books include Millions, Cosmic, The Unforgotten Coat, and his latest novel The Blockbusters! - a lively, humorous story about friendship, imagination, and teamwork as a group of kids come together to make their own movie masterpiece.
His school visits and workshops inspire young readers and writers to dream big, think deeply and discover the power of storytelling.
We are really excited to have Frank as Patron for Kingsley & Co and can't wait to see what he has to bring to our audience with event and poetry competition book launch!
KS1, 2 & 3
Natalie Denny
Natalie Denny is a children’s author, educator, and activist who brings creativity, confidence, and empowerment into the classroom. Her Keisha Jones book series inspires young people to find their voice and stand up for what they believe in.
Through engaging workshops, Natalie helps pupils explore big ideas like identity, activism, and kindness—all while having fun with words. A passionate and experienced facilitator, she creates safe, inspiring spaces where every child feels heard.
KS1 & 2