We regret to announce that our original reader in residence, Sophie Anderson, who was also due to perform at our children’s festival, has had to withdraw from the festival due to illness. We hope to see Sophie back at Litfest soon. However, in her place, we are delighted to welcome award-winning author Liz Flanagan back to Litfest!

Take a wander into the Dark Forest with a special event with Litfest’s Reader in Residence, Liz Flanagan. Liz is the author of the Wildsmith series:

When war comes to her city, Rowan and her mum must flee to the Dark Forest to live with the grandfather Rowan never knew she had – and his white wolf Arto. Although she misses her father, Rowan makes new friends, including a trio of powerful witches. When she rescues a baby dragon from poachers, she discovers the secret of her own identity: could Rowan really be a wildsmith just like her grandfather? And when new danger threatens, Rowan will need all her courage and more.

“Wildsmiths, dragons, witches and the protection of magical animals! What’s not to love? An enchanting read. Beautifully written and utterly charming. I can’t wait for the next adventure!”

— Eloise Williams, inaugural Children’s Laureate Wales

“A lush, rich, page-turning adventure from one of the most versatile writers we have. There’s no genre Liz can’t write in…”

— Phil Earle, award-winning children’s author

“Liz has crafted a stunningly rich world and characters – brimming with magic and wonder, yet wonderfully warm and familiar. The lush illustrations feel reminiscent of the beautiful animations of Studio Ghibli.”

“Wildsmith has everything I want in a story – magic, mystery and dragons! Liz is the mistress of dragons and in this thrilling adventure she has cast her story-telling spell with utter charm and skill. Children are in for such a treat! Thank goodness there’s a sequel – I want more!”

— Jasbinder Bilan, Costa Award-winning Children’s Author

Liz Flanagan writes for children and young adults. Her books include the Wildsmith series, Eden Summer, Dragon Daughter and Rise of the Shadow Dragons. See lizflanagan.co.uk / @lizziebooks for more information. Liz is the 2023 Litfest Reader in Residence, learn more on p. 10. of the Litfest programme www.litfest.org

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Children’s Festival Liz Flanagan: Wildsmith