Every year we put on a big event with a big-name author or illustrator!
Publicity for our World Book Day-out generally goes out late in the autumn term. We’ve treated schools to a fantastic lineup in previous years featuring several Children’s Laureates, including Joseph Coelho, Rashmi Sirdeshpande, Serena Patel, Zanib Mian, Chris Riddell, Michael Rosen and Jacqueline Wilson.
For 2026 we’ve got the wonderful Maz Evans (Who Let the Gods Out) and Author-Illustrator Nicola Slater (The Leaf Thief)
World Book Day 2026
Maz Evans
Where? : Tower Hamlets Town Hall, Whitechapel
When? : Thursday 5th March 2026, 10.30am to 11.30am
For years 5,6 and 7
Maz is the bestselling, award-winning author of, Who let the gods out? (coming to the stage in London in 2026), Vi Spy and Scarlett Fife series.
Her work in children’s literature has garnered over 50 award nominations, including the Carnegie Medal, Branford Boase, Books Are My Bag, Waterstone’s Children’s Book of the Year, Indie Children’s Book of the Year and CrimeFest Best Children’s Book.
Nicola Slater
Where? : Tower Hamlets Town Hall, Whitechapel
When? : Thursday 5th March 2026, 1.30pm to 2.30pm
For years 1,2 and 3
Nicola has illustrated numerous picture books, but she is probably best known for the bestselling ‘The Leaf Thief’ which we know is very popular in classrooms around Tower Hamlets!
As well as a talk, Nicola will be leading an interactive draw-along session, so make sure to bring pencils and paper!
BOOKING
For schools who subscribe to the Schools Library Service, this event is £3 per pupil and £5 per pupil for all other schools.
There will be a book shop (Brick Lane Books) at the venue on the day (books may be pre-ordered) and Maz and Nicola will sign copies of their books after their events.
We’re getting very close to capacity. If we can’t fit you in we’ll keep you on a waiting list in case another school drops out.
Booking will close on 6th February 2026. Send an email, stating which author session you wish to attend, the numbers and year group/s of the children you wish to bring and the number of accompanying adults to monica.carmichael@towerhamlets.gov.uk
If you’d like to go on our mailing list for updates bookings, email monica.carmichael@towerhamlets.gov.uk