Seven Stories, the wonderful National Centre for Children’s Books in Newcastle, is turning 20 this year, and they’re celebrating with all manner of spectacular adventures.

In a world beset by anxieties over children spending too many hours staring at TikTok etc, Seven Stories is a real beacon when it comes to promoting the sheer joy of books. And this summer – as the centre turns 20 – they’re offering children a real world of adventure, specifically ‘Adventure by Book’ which is running every day, over multiple times. This will open the door to children and families exhilarating new worlds, different perspectives, and the chance to experience the magic of storytelling first hand. Also running across multiple days throughout the summer is ‘The Magic Faraway Tree Summer Panto’ (pictured). Here children can join Silky the Saucepan Man on their adventure to the land at the top of the Faraway Tree. Over the summer holidays Seven Stories is also launching their brand new book club ‘Page Turners’, which is aimed at middle-grade readers who will be reading six new titles, each based on one of the seven basic plots. Seven Stories also have plenty of ‘Craft Adventures’ going on, which will let children get creative every week with themed craft activities that will transport them to different worlds. And – of course – the centre will also be holding plenty of author-led events and exhibitions. You can find details on these – and everything else mentioned above – from the website, below. JL

Seven Stories, 30 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle. More info and booking details etc: sevenstories.org.uk