Kids, Books

The author of Astrosaurs, Cows In Action and The Slime Squad talks about the crazy characters and adventurous plots found in his children's books. Ages 8–12.

After taking a look at the characters from his book Bagpipes, Beasties and Bogles, the children's author and illustrator leads a session of storytelling and drawing. Ages 5–8.

The feisty Katie Morag is a much loved character - a chance to meet her creator and hear some of her adventures. Mairi Hedderwick will also sign her books. Suitable for age 5 and up.

The two young adult authors talk about their latest efforts: Pitcher's Ketchup Clouds, a novel about a 15 year old named Zoe, and Updale's The Last Minutes, which takes place in the last 60 seconds before an explosion in a small town. Ages 12+.

A new weekend book festival for Blairgowrie and Rattray with guest authors and a range of events including an interactive children's programme.

The stationary meets the cyclical at this celebration of literature, thought and the outdoors in the Borders. Using the natural environment and the inspirational effects of the outdoors to stimulate debate, events include literary and woodland walks, storytelling cycle rides.

Fletcher talks about his latest adventure book, and delves into his time working in film and TV. Ages 9+.

The children's book illustrator sits down with Vivian French to talk about the more than 200 books he's illustrator. Suitable for all ages!

Biennial arts festival with a focus on contemporary visual arts that combines an open call for submissions with invited guests to inspire new work and includes internationally-recognised artists. The programme, which also includes music, workshops and artists’ talks, utilises unused buildings and exterior spaces in and…

The writer/illustrator talks about her wild and wacky character, Darcy Burdock. Ages 8–11.

Shan talks about his (kid-friendly!) zombie apocalypse series.

The Scottish Borders' most talented young poets accept their awards. Ages 9+.

With a spot of sea air and an entertaining line-up of music, comedy, theatre, film, authors and children’s events, North Berwick's multi-arts festival offers a respite from the madness of Edinburgh in festival season.

A spectacular Burns Night celebration featuring a cast of over 2000, original music and giant puppets on a parade to celebrate Homecoming Scotland 2014 and Burns Night.

Horace the Haggis must outwit the evil haggis hunters and find a safe place to hide in the forest, but can his new friends help him escape? A reading from author Sally Magnusson for families and children.

Francesca Simon talks about what inspired her to create the world inhabited by Horrid Henry, Moody Margaret and Perfect Peter, and introduces Horrid Henry's Nightmare, the 22nd Horrid Henry book and a brand new story. Ages 6+.

New author Silvana Biagioni reads extracts from her book Sacha Meets a Sellkie. She'll also bring in Sacha's story sack, full of things for children to rummage through.

Now in its eighth year, this local festival offers a wide range of authors and speakers for adults and children of all ages, as well as How To Get Published, which gives budding local authors advice on how to get published. Past line-ups have included some of the the bigger names in the Scottish literary scene.

Take inspiration from the patterns of objects in the silver gallery to make your own bookmark.

The best-selling author behing Charlie and Lola and Clarice Bean shows off her latest book about kid detective Ruby Redfort, Take Your Last Breath. Ages 8+.

The latest in the Fairy Detective Agency series from the children's writer and illustrator.

An age-free arts festival with music, literature and spoken word, visual art and crafts, film and theatre as well as a programme of talks and debates. 2013 promises intimate venues, rising stars, unique collaborations, participation and mental stimulation.