Griffin Books has announced the return of the Penarth Literary Festival this summer. From Saturday 18 to Sunday 26 June, Penarth’s independent bookshop will host a packed programme of literary events guaranteed to delight and entertain readers of all ages. There is a specific focus on Welsh authors, stories and local talent with events ranging from literary fiction, poetry and fascinating non-fiction to children’s picture books, writing workshops and even a quiz night!

This year’s festival falls within Independent Bookshop Week, which is celebrated by bookshops across the UK and highlights the vital role independent bookshops plays in their community. The line-up includes novelist Tessa Hadley, award-winning children’s writer Caryl Lewis, poet and psychogeographer Peter Finch, and American author Pamela Petro who will be joining via Zoom to discuss her new memoir inspired by the Welsh concept of hiraeth. Plus, there will be an evening of Welsh-language fiction hosted by Jon Gower, a crime-writing workshop with Katherine Stansfield, a lively literary quiz night, and the return of our much-loved Poetry Showcase, hosted by Penarth resident and poet Stephen Payne.

There will also be a special bonus children’s event on Saturday 2 July with Lauren Ace, author of bestselling picture-books The Girls and The Boys.

Griffin Books has introduced a £30 Friend of Festival ticket pass, which gives event-goers free access to sessions, discounts on festival book purchases and other exclusive perks.

To view the full festival line-up and buy tickets, visit ticketsource.co.uk/griffinbooks. Tickets can also be purchased in person from Griffin Books (9A Windsor Road), or over the phone on 029 2070 6455.

The Penarth Literary Festival is running alongside the Penarth Chamber Music Festival (23-26 June): penarthchambermusicfestival.org.uk