Rochdale Literature and Ideas Festival: Meet the Authors

Robin Parker, Town Centre Chaplin Margaret Smith and librarian Ray Stern, writer and festival compare Norman Warwick

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Local authors took to the stage this morning (Friday 25 October) to speak to people in attendance at the Rochdale Literature and Ideas festival.

The meet the author’s session included Langley writer and author Robin Parker, Town Centre Chaplin Margaret Smith and librarian Ray Stern as well as writer and festival compere Norman Warwick.

The authors each read pieces of work as well as inviting audience participation within the hour long event.

Robin Parker read from his new book the Edenfield Scrolls. The readings were comical takes on bible tales.

Margaret Smith also used the bible as her influence and read a number of poems inspired by the bible and bible stories. Her readings included 'A children’s book report about the bible', 'The Bible in 50 words' and 'Prodigal son in the key of F.'

Ray Stern talked of his experiences with local children in the build up to the festival and said: "There is talent in Rochdale and it has been great to see the imagination that has been brought to this festival."

Ray also performed the poem 'Percy is a Punk' and read the winning competition entry from the summer writing competition. Megan, aged 9, who won the competition will receive her prize tomorrow.

Norman Warwick also spoke of his involvement with local schools and children leading up to the festival and added: "We have had some great interpretations of poems."

When speaking about the writers he shared the stage with, Norman said: "It interests me to see how other people work and speak about their work."

The event was originally scheduled to headed by author Jenn Ashworth but unfortunately, Jenn had to cancel this morning due to illness.

www.rochdaleliteraturefestival.co.uk