Book lovers are being invited to turn a new page this autumn as Stoke-on-Trent prepares to host its first-ever Stoke Book Festival.

Taking place from 3 to 10 October, the week-long celebration will bring together bestselling authors, local writers, workshops, family activities and community events at venues across the city, with many events centred around Stoke Minster.

The festival is being presented in partnership with Stoke Minster, Stoke-on-Trent City Council Libraries, Visit Stoke-on-Trent, YMCA North Staffordshire and the National Literacy Trust.

Launching during the National Year of Reading 2026, the festival aims to inspire a love of books and storytelling while supporting efforts to tackle literacy poverty in the city. Organisers hope the event will complement existing literacy initiatives already taking place across Stoke-on-Trent.

The programme features a host of acclaimed authors and speakers, including travel writer Helena Attlee, bestselling crime novelist Mel Sherratt, award-winning historical fiction author AJ West, writer and comedian Verity Babbs, and journalist and author Dave Proudlove, who will launch his latest book during the festival. Other highlights include a special book club event with novelist Jess Kidd and a networking and publishing panel for local authors.

Designed for readers of all ages, the festival will also feature family-friendly activities, workshops, school events and community celebrations, creating opportunities for people to discover new books, meet authors and celebrate the power of reading.

For more information and tickets, visit stokebookfestival.co.uk.