Top names flock to Chorlton Book Festival

Poet Laureate Carol Anne Duffy, playwright Charlotte Keatley and poet and novelist Jackie Kay are some of the top literary names who will be making an appearance at this year's Chorlton Book Festival.

The Festival runs from Monday 8 until Sunday 21 November 2010 when Chorlton will be awash with writing workshops, story times, competitions and talks at venues as diverse as a local bar, the local library and a toy  shop.

Now in its sixth year, the Chorlton Book Festival celebrates local talent and  makes the world of books and words accessible to everyone.

Literary readings sit alongside fancy-dress for kids,while the translations of  classic Buddhist texts can be enjoyed along with trying out the latest e-books, the most recent development in reading.

Councillor Mike Amesbury, Manchester City Council's executive member for culture and leisure said: "We've got a fantastic line-up this year with the very best local literary talent joining us. It's going to be a real treat for established fans of the festival and it is a great introduction for people who want to come along for the first time and see what it's all about."

There are a number of different events over the 14 days of the festival to suit all ages and tastes. For example, children will enjoy events including the 101 Dalmatians themed activities at Chorlton Library, swashbuckling  adventures at the Pirate Pretenders event at the Busy Bee Toy Shop as well as story and art competitions.

The Teen Poetry Slam with Mike Garry gives all those aged between 13 and 19 the opportunity to win a Kindle e-book readers while older book fans might enjoy the pub quiz with a difference at Oddest Bar.

Creative writing workshops, book readings and author talks represents the best of the rest.

For more  information visit www.manchester.gov.uk/chorltonbookfestival. All the city's libraries offer free internet access for the first hour for anyone  wanting to log on to find out more.