Angela Beeching, Ted Dewan, Vicky Ireland, Ann Jungman, Gillian McClure, Terry Pratchett, Shoo Rayner, Posy Simmonds, Caroline Sheldon, Michael Thorn, Nicholas Tucker, Jean Ure, Fay Weldon and Jacqueline Wilson. The main thrust of the weekend is to look to the future, what happens to the book once it has been published, the implications of the world wide web, television, film, foreign publications. The university will form a meeting place to exchange views, passions - to share problems and celebrate pleasures. A major exhibition will be mounted especially for the conference. The series has already been awarded the Best European TV Series Award at the Cartoon on the Bay Festival in Italy and should sweep the prize board during the forthcoming year.
Early booking is advised .
The 2000 programme includes Philip Ardagh, Neil Arksey, Bernard Ashley, Anthony Browne, Jan Fearnley, Vivian French, Mary Hooper, Pete Johnson, Helen Pielichaty, Celia Rees, Paul Stewart, Jacqueline Wilson and Ian Whybrow - with a special appearance by US Newbery winner, Louis Sachar. He is noted for his work in science fiction and fantasy. My Homework, The Magic Shop series, Goblins in the Castle, Space Brat, and the recent Aliens Stole My Body. His works have been translated and published in many languages, including French. Includes a session by Quentin Blake talking about Un bateau dans le ciel , the picture book written by 1,500 French children and illustrated by him.