Calling all book lovers! Be you readers, writers or both. This is your chance to meet authors, discover new books, take part in free workshops or attend talks by experts in the literary world. Join together with The Book Dragon and the local community to celebrate all things books at this engaging event that’s fun for all the family. 11am: Write To Change Your Life with Author Richard Evans Join Author and Screenwriter Richard Evans as he encourages you to Write to Change Your Life. Discover how by taking the first steps on your writing journey you can build your confidence and work towards making your literary dreams come true 12pm: Reading for Pleasure with The National Literacy Trust Discover how to encourage a culture of reading for pleasure and create daily reading habits for both yourself and your children. Learn how nurturing a love of reading can empower you and enrich your life. 1pm: My Journey Through Self-Publishing and Beyond with Kirsty McKay Join The Book Dragon founder Kirsty McKay as she guides you through her journey of self-publishing, both as an author and businesswoman. Discover how the challenges she’s faced from her disability have helped give her the drive to thrive. 2pm: From Idea to Final Draft with James Harris from Writer’s Block North East Join James Harris from Writers’ Block North East as he tells the story of Middlesbrough’s best-kept literary secret – an organisation that has to date helped over 10 local authors find representation and publication, a list that includes Lisette Auton, JM Hall, Mike Edwards, Carmen Marcus, Rachel Bower and James himself. James will discuss the history of Writers’ Block, and offer hints and tips on turning your amazing idea for a novel into a final draft you can be proud of.