Liverpool Book Festival Summer Special Brought Together Authors, Readers and the Local Community

Author/Editor Maria Anna Furman

On 2 August 2026, Boxpark at Cains Brewery Village in Liverpool was filled with books, conversations, music and family attractions. The Liverpool Book Festival Summer Special became a meeting place for authors, publishers, artists, local entrepreneurs and readers, who were able not only to discover new publications but also to meet their creators and speak with them directly, without the involvement of major sales platforms.

It was the third edition of the Liverpool Book Festival, an event organised by Justin Hopper, founder of La Vida Liverpool magazine. The first festival took place in September 2025, followed by another edition in March 2026, while the August event was organised as a special summer edition.

From the outset, the idea behind the event was to create a space where authors could present their work directly to readers. In a world dominated by major online platforms, gaining recognition for a new book can be difficult, particularly for independent authors. The Liverpool Book Festival responded to this need by bringing together those who write with those seeking new stories, inspiration and valuable literature.

The organiser describes the festival as a “book fair on steroids”, and the programme did indeed extend far beyond a traditional exhibition event. Dozens of authors representing different literary genres and creative backgrounds appeared at Boxpark. Publishers TAUK Publishing and Madison House Press also presented their work, alongside independent bookshops and literary projects.

Readers were able to purchase books directly from the authors, obtain signed copies, discover the stories behind individual publications and speak with their creators in a relaxed atmosphere. This format helped bridge the gap between authors and readers, reminding everyone that behind every book stands a person – with their experiences, imagination and the courage to share their own voice with the world.

The literary part of the event was complemented by stalls run by craftspeople, artists, makers, independent brands and local entrepreneurs. Visitors were able to explore the offerings of bookshops, artistic products, 3D-printed items, vintage fashion and personalised creative services. A varied selection of food prepared by street-food vendors operating at Boxpark completed the experience.

One of the most important elements of the Liverpool Book Festival Summer Special was a series of talks and meetings held in the Beatbox Room. The programme covered subjects related to psychology, history, popular culture, music and the personal experiences of invited guests.

Alan Bates spoke about the power of the mind and hypnosis, while Anna Harrison introduced participants to tarot. Sue King, a ju-jitsu legend, met the audience during a question-and-answer session. Francesco Mellina presented stories connected with Liverpool’s legendary venues.

The programme also included a screening of the short film Crow Dark Dawn, accompanied by live narration. Tim Quinn and Kev Sutherland delivered a presentation devoted to the world of Marvel, while Colin Hall explored the history of songs that The Beatles wrote or gave to other performers. Readers were also able to attend a meeting with bestselling author Conrad Jones. The series concluded with a talk by Rusty Firmin about his experiences connected with the SAS.

The wide variety of subjects covered meant that the festival became not only a place for promoting books, but also a space for exchanging knowledge, experiences and perspectives.

Abbie Fairchild, Sophie Mac and Liz Owen performed on the main stage throughout the day. DJ Laura Love led the afternoon music programme. Additional performances took place in the adult terrace area, featuring Oisín Hassan, Nikhil Hathiwała and JP Cumberlidge. Imperial Order Cosplay also took part in the event, bringing elements of fantasy and popular culture to the festival.

The Kids’ Zone held a special place in the programme. Younger visitors were able to meet fairytale characters, listen to stories, take part in arts and crafts, enjoy musical activities and join a children’s disco.

Free admission for children under the age of 12 emphasised the festival’s open and family-friendly character. The organisers wanted entire families to be able to spend time together, discover literature and participate in cultural activities without placing an excessive burden on household budgets.

The Liverpool Book Festival Summer Special also had a social and charitable dimension. During the event, support was given to Reverse North West CIC, an organisation helping people affected by domestic violence, and the Mersey Mind Project, which works to support men’s mental health.

Other community and charitable organisations also participated in the festival, including Y Kids, Inspiring Minds CIC, Positivity Club and the NSPCC. Their presence served as a reminder that a well-planned cultural event can do more than provide entertainment: it can also draw attention to important social issues and build meaningful support for people in need.

The Liverpool Book Festival Summer Special demonstrated that literature can become the starting point for a much broader encounter with music, history, art, local enterprise and community action.

Author/Editor Maria Anna Furman