Some of the best-known children's authors, including Mairi Hedderwick, Lauren Child and Tony Ross, and people in the guise of well-loved characters from children's books, ranging from Noddy to Paddington Bear, will be attending this year's Festival, which is co-sponsored by Nursery World's sister title TES Scotland.
Events include storytelling for four-to seven-year-olds by Rachel Smillie, inspired by music and folklore, and a session with poet and performer Michael Rosen. Young visitors can find out about the latest adventures of Maisie the Edinburgh cat when Aileen Paterson launches Maisie Goes to Japan. The exploits of Big Mouse and Little Mouse in Diana Hendry and Rachel Mimiec's new title The Very Busy Day, meanwhile, will form the basis of a story and hat-making workshop.
Birthday parties with activities, games and cake will be held during the festival for Winnie the Pooh, who turns 75, and the Mr Men, who are 30 years old this year. Also on the bill are crazy cartoons, silly stories, potty poems and answers to all the serious or silly questions children can think of, given by Laurence Anholt and Arthur Robbins, the creators of Seriously Silly Stories.
The book festival's assistant director (children and education), Marc Lambert, said, 'This year, as ever, we feature the best children's writers, illustrators and artists in over 250 events. There are some startling innovations as well. These include specially commissioned art for the gardens on a literary theme, a brilliant free exhibition, a writer in residence, special themes and events, plus activities of every type, including free storytelling every day.' Festival programmes are available from arts and leisure outlets, libraries and branches of James Thin and Waterstone's. Those hoping to attend can also visit www.edbookfest.co.uk or phone the box office on 0131 624 5050.