The Word is literary Festival held at Polka, which brings the very best children’s authors and illustrators to talk to children and their families. Initiated seven years ago it has become a much loved and celebrated event. Past participants have included Jacqueline Wilson, Michael Morpugo, Quentin Blake, Michael Rosen, Brian Patten, Michelle Paver, Malorie Blackman and Jamila Gavin. The Word aims to encourage a love of reading and gives children and young people the chance to listen to their favourite authors. After speaking the children have a chance to question authors on how they write and what inspires them. Children also then have a chance to get their books signed or have a photograph taken with their favourite author. One of the most rewarding aspects of the festival is seeing children clutching worn and well-loved books excited about them being signed. As well as encouraging a love of reading with children, the event also promotes family learning and reading together as a family. The Word is not only about hearing authors, illustrators and poets talk about and read from their work, it aims to encourage the writers of the future. Throughout the day there are free workshops exploring how to write stories and plays. These stories are entered in a ‘Story Box’ and the best stories are acted out on the stage by the workshop leaders. This again is an inspiration for children involved.