April’s Born & Read round‑up brings together a vibrant mix of book fairs, author events, family workshops and quiet reading hours – from bustling literary gatherings in the heart of Norwich to thoughtful book groups on the coast and hands‑on storytelling sessions.

Whether you’re looking to discover new writing, meet the authors shaping today’s literary landscape or simply curl up with fellow book lovers in a peaceful corner, this month’s programme offers something for readers of every age and appetite.

Here are a selection of upcoming reading and storytelling events to add to your calendar: 

Page Against The Machine: Quiet Reading Hour 

The Book Hive, Norwich 

Free, drop‑in at The Book Hive

A peaceful weekly silent‑reading session encouraging readers to switch off, settle in with a book, and enjoy uninterrupted time.

Imperfect Storms: New Work from East Anglian Writers 

Norwich Theatre Stage Two, Norwich 

From £3.50, book at Norwich Theatre

An evening celebrating bold new writing from East Anglian scriptwriters, poets, playwrights and more – featuring surprising, imaginative works‑in‑progress. 

Second-hand Book Fair 

St Andrew’s Church, Eaton

Browse thousands of quality second-hand books across fiction, nonfiction and collectables, with friendly volunteers and plenty to explore.  

The Yard Coffee, Norwich

Free, booking via Meetup

This month’s Feminist Book Club dives into Ancient Bodies, Ancient Lives: Sex, Gender, and Archaeology by Rosemary Joyce – a bold, thought‑provoking exploration of how gender has been understood across cultures and centuries.

Make an Easter or Spring-themed Concertina Book with Amanda Addison

10am, 10.45am and 11.30am (each session is 30 mins)

Free, book online with National Centre for Writing

Using words, found images, doodles and drawings, you will create an Easter or spring-themed concertina book to take home with you.

Cley Marshes Visitor Centre, Cley‑next‑the‑Sea 

£4.67, book via Norfolk Wildlife Trust

A nature‑themed book group discussing Cuckoo by Nick Davies, with hot drinks and cake included.  

Set within the light‑filled atrium of the Millennium Library, the fair offers the chance to browse an impressive range of antiquarian, second‑hand and collectable books and chat with knowledgeable booksellers in the heart of the city.

Joelle Taylor: Maryville 

Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich 

From £8.50, book via Norwich Arts Centre

A powerful staged reading from TS Eliot Prize‑winning poet Joelle Taylor, exploring five decades of queer counterculture through vivid, poetic storytelling.  

An Evening with Helen Serafinowicz 

A lively and warm conversation with the writer behind Motherland and Amandaland, hosted by ITV’s Nina Nannar and supported by stand‑up from Meryl O’Rourke.  

Drop‑in & Write (ages 60+)

Dragon Hall, Norwich 

Free, book via National Centre for Writing

A calm, supportive writing space for older writers looking to focus, share quiet company and dedicate time to developing their projects.

SPOKE presents Henry Normal & Jan Brierton

From £23, book via Norwich Arts Centre

An evening of spoken‑word, humour, reflection and poetic performance from two celebrated writers and performers.  

Aylsham Town Read: Naomi Wood’s The Hiding Game

Friendship Hall, Aylsham

Free, book via The Book Hive

Join author Naomi Wood for the fifth Aylsham Town Read, as the whole town comes together like one big book club to discuss her acclaimed novel The Hiding Game.

Write Your Book – Opening Session 

Carnegie Library, King’s Lynn 

£250 for full eight‑week course, book via Norfolk Writing School

Led by author and journalist Piper Terrett, this structured writing course offers guidance on planning, writing and preparing a manuscript for publication.

If This Be Magic: Shakespeare in Translation with Daniel Hahn

£6-£10 (pay what you wish), book via National Centre for Writing

Award‑winning translator Daniel Hahn invites audiences to rethink Shakespeare through the fascinating lens of translation. Featuring live readings from guest performers, this illuminating event celebrates the artistry, precision and playfulness behind bringing the Bard to life in new tongues.

A Family Affair: Yvvette Edwards & Ashley Hickson‑Lovence

£6-£10 (pay what you wish), book via National Centre for Writing

Two acclaimed novelists come together for a warm, open conversation about family, legacy and the beating heart of their latest books.

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

© Norwich Evening News