Northern Dreaming Anthology for Children: Leeds 2023

As part of Leeds 2023, three Hive early career writers – Luke Worthy, Freya Bantiff and Safia Khan were commissioned to write new work for Northern Dreaming: a collection of poetry and stories for children from 0 to 12 years old.

In partnership with the British Library, Leeds 2023 invited nine emerging writers (aged 18–30) to be published alongside nine established authors and artists in this beautiful hardback, illustrated anthology.

The book, launching 1th October 2023, will be gifted to every child born in Leeds in 2023, shared through many channels, and available in multiple settings, including libraries, and schools. The initial print run will be 15,000 copies.

With stories for babies, children and young adults, the book is designed to carry readers all the way through their childhood and be treasured long after the last page has been turned.

Luke Worthy said: “Northern Dreaming has given me the opportunity to write the story that I needed when I was a child. In essence, I felt like I was writing to a younger self that, coming into contact with the harshness of the world, just wanted to hide. This project for me was about helping young northerners believe in their own magic.”

 

Freya Bantiff said: “I’ve felt so grateful to have been part of the Leeds 2023 Northern Dreaming anthology – knowing that my work is finding its place in a book crammed full of talented writers and making its way onto the shelves of children who will read it for years to come absolutely thrills me. I hope everyone who dives into this book enjoys it as much as I enjoyed contributing to it!

This gifted book is a celebration of the magical thrill of storytelling and a place for readers to find comfort, inspiration and joy. Each author shares their unique perspective and imagination, inspiring the next generation of dreamers.

Northern Dreaming will be available to collect, for free, from various locations across Leeds from Thursday 19 October 2023, including from all Leeds libraries.

If you’re the parent or carer of a newborn please check the Northern Dreaming webpage for full details on how to collect your copy of the book.

LEEDS 2023 strives to forge new connections with established organisations to shine a light on the brilliant artwork already being created across Leeds and the north, and to create further opportunities for artists.

The British Library are the national library of the United Kingdom and give access to the world’s most comprehensive research collection. We provide information services to academic, business, research and scientific communities.