All aboard for family reading event as ‘flotilla of wonder’ sets sail |
Getting children comfortable with the magic of books doesn’t start with strict grammar rules or quiet study desks. It starts with embarking on a journey of boundless imagination.
Set Sail! with Robert Starling, a family event at the City of Literature Weekend at Norfolk and Norwich Festival 2026, will take place at the Spiegeltent in Chapelfield Gardens on May 22.
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Programmed by the National Centre for Writing, the hour-long event will bring together Robert’s first picture book, Fergal is Fuming!, and his latest title, This is the Girl, which he said is about “wonder over plunder”.
It tells the story of a daring young girl from a fishing village who sets out to sea on a small green boat with her black cat in tow.
Robert Starling’s books have been translated into 20 languages, and his debut was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Award (Image: Robert Starling)
“It’s about being witness to the beauty out there, without taking everything from it,” Robert said. “Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how beautiful and incredible this world is.
“It’s also about strong, independent women, and a message to my daughter – and all children – about following their own path.”
The session is designed to entice children into reading by linking stories with sound, drawing and making. Attendees will make ‘a flotilla of wonder’ – simple boats from card and recycled materials.
“Expect one angry dragon, roaring noises, calm breathing, an open ocean and beautiful sea creatures!” Robert said. “You’ll need card (cereal box is ideal), maybe a lolly stick or just a stick, and some paints or pencils.
“Let’s see how far the flotilla can travel!”
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Research shows that children often engage more readily with reading when it connects to other forms of expression. Drawing, making and storytelling allow children to respond in their own way, without worrying about the ‘right’ way to do things.
Making something physical helps children slow down, focus and talk about ideas, often leading back to stories and language.
Robert believes creative activity also helps to manage restlessness.
“For me, the biggest benefit of drawing and making is the way it soothes my busy mind,” Robert said. “When I’m creating art, I just don’t think about anything else. It’s very mindful.
“I think we need this now more than ever, so I’m all for art for mental health.”
Reading also supports independence.
“Being a reader means you get to explore and consume information you want to consume,” he said. “It empowers you to follow your own interests and learn new things.”
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But the benefits do not stop there. Books are also incredible tools for expanding our perspectives and building connection with others, Robert said.
“Reading is a powerful tool for empathy – it allows us to find out about other people’s cultures, experiences and opinions. It’s a way of seeing inside other people’s heads! It’s a safe space to explore unfamiliar feelings and thoughts, which can really help people.
“It also gives you a brilliant imaginative place you can go to. And the more you feed your mind, the more you can do with it!
“Stories have been bringing us together for thousands of years, and it’s always great to come together and share them as a group,” Robert added.
“Events like this show the invisible connections between us, as we come together and realise that we are all sharing the same stories at home.”
To book tickets, please visit tinyurl.com/setsailevent
This article has been published as part of Born & Read in Norfolk – a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing, headline sponsor RWE and sponsor YouGarden.
Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk