Christchurch City Libraries has organised a series of “novel” events for the New Zealand Post Children's Book Festival.

The festival, which will run from Monday 26 March to Friday 5 April, is a nationwide celebration of children's books. It culminates with the New Zealand Post Children's Book Awards, which recognise the best in children's fiction, non-fiction and picture books.

The library's programme of events will start with a “Bookgig” on Monday 26 March at the Christchurch Drama Centre. Students of the centre will perform Call of the Cruins by Elizabeth Pulford, a story about pioneer life shortlisted in the Junior Fiction category of the awards. The Bookgig is open to school classes only. Bookings are essential.

Celebrations will continue on Tuesday 27 March with the “Story Tram.” Departing from the Cathedral Square tram stop at 10.30am and 11am, the Story Tram will make two half hour circuits of the city, while pre-school aged children are entertained by songs and stories from New Zealand.

On Monday 2 April, novelist and scriptwriter Ken Catran will talk about the research for his latest book Voyage with Jason, shortlisted in the Senior Fiction category of the awards. Aimed at senior students and adults, the talk will be held at the Central City Library from 7.30-8.30pm.

"We are delighted to offer such a varied programme of events," says Bill Nagelkerke, the library's Children's and Young Adults' Services Co-ordinator. "This is the first time we have used the tram as a venue and we are sure it will have huge appeal."

Entry to the Story Tram and Ken Catran's talk is free of charge and will be on a “first come, first in” basis.

Invitation: The media is welcome at all events.

For more information: Bill Nagelkerke, Children's and Young Adults' Services Co-ordinator, Christchurch City Libraries: 372 7885 or Sasha Bowers, Promotions & Publications Co-ordinator, Christchurch City Libraries: 372 7845

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