JERSEY FESTIVAL OF WORDS TO WELCOME MICHAEL ROSEN

Organisers of the Jersey Festival of Words have announced poet and author Michael Rosen to be one of the visiting writers headlining this year’s Festival, with HIGHVERN supporting as main sponsors for a third consecutive year.

A popular broadcaster who has presented BBC Radio 4’s acclaimed programme about language, ‘Word of Mouth’ since 1998, Michael has published in the region of 200 books for children and adults, including The Sad Book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and A Great Big Cuddle. He has received the Eleanor Farjeon Award for outstanding contribution to children’s literature, and was Children’s Laureate between 2007-2009.

A prolific social commentator, Michael writes a monthly open ‘letter’ to the Secretary of State for Education in The Guardian where he critiques Government policy on schools from the standpoint of a parent.  He visits schools, teachers’ conferences, and university teacher training departments where he is in demand to give performances, workshops and keynote addresses. He also appears regularly at literary festivals all over the UK and Ireland.

While in Jersey, Michael will be discussing his new book Getting Better on his experience learning to live with the death of his son, Eddie, and recovering from a near-fatal Covid infection. He will also be hosting a separate children’s poetry event as part of the Festival’s schools programme.

‘We are so excited Michael will be appearing at the Festival of Words when so many people have been touched by his work,’ said Festival chair Lucy Cotter. ‘His appeal and influence spans the generations, from parents and children who have cherished memories of a ‘bear hunt’ to those he has profoundly moved with his words on illness and loss.’

Martin Hall, Chief Executive of HIGHVERN, said: “We are delighted to not only be supporting the Festival again this year, but also to be welcoming Michael Rosen, a house-hold name for so many islanders. The Festival is always an inspiring event and a fantastic opportunity to meet some of the most celebrated authors of our time, so we are incredibly proud of our role in working with organisers to deliver this across Jersey.”

Now in its ninth year, the Jersey Festival of Words is an annual celebration of literature, poetry, and spoken word performances. The festival, which takes place between September 20-29, features a diverse range of writers, from established authors to emerging talents, and includes workshops, readings, discussions, and performances.

As well as the Freedom Centre, this year’s festival will take place at the Arts Centre, Jersey Library and other local venues including the Blue Note Bar. Additional festival funding from Government of Jersey and other local sponsors.

This year’s Festival has received additional funding from Government of Jersey and will feature over 60 events, details of which will be revealed in the months ahead. Further information can be found at www.jerseyfestivalofwords.org.