Peek A Book Children’s Literature Festival 2025

Do Children Still Read?

In an age of smartphones, streaming platforms, and endless digital distractions, many wonder if children still pick up books with the same enthusiasm as before. Yet, the truth remains: when children encounter a story that resonates with them, they read with passion and curiosity. Books continue to be a gateway into imagination, empathy, and discovery, offering children perspectives far beyond their own lives.
This is demonstrated by children's book festivals all across the world. They celebrate the ageless art of storytelling by bringing together authors, illustrators, educators, and readers. Through workshops, performances, and talks, these festivals not only expose kids to a wide range of literature but also foster situations where stories come to life. They serve as a reminder that reading is not only a solitary activity but also a shared pleasure that unites communities, families, and classes.

This is demonstrated by children's book festivals all across the world. They celebrate the ageless art of storytelling by bringing together authors, illustrators, educators, and readers. Through workshops, performances, and talks, these festivals not only expose kids to a wide range of literature but also foster situations where stories come to life. They serve as a reminder that reading is not only a solitary activity but also a shared pleasure that unites communities, families, and classes.

Why Workshops and Reading Sessions Matter

Beyond books themselves, one of the most powerful ways to nurture a child’s love for stories is through interactive experiences. Workshops, live readings, and storytelling sessions allow children to step inside a narrative, not just as listeners but as participants. A read-aloud session can bring characters to life, while a creative writing workshop might encourage a child to imagine and pen their own worlds.

These kinds of activities help kids grow in empathy, communication, and creative confidence in addition to providing entertainment. For instance, storytelling workshops enable young readers to make the connection between words and emotions, so transforming reading into a lived experience. While theater-based or movement-based activities demonstrate that stories may also be lived through performance, illustrator-led sessions encourage youngsters to view art and language as complimentary means of expression.

These moments matter because they transform books from static objects into living companions. A child who attends a workshop often walks away not only with a new book but also with the confidence to create, question, and dream. Festivals and libraries that host such sessions become spaces where reading grows into a habit, and eventually, into a lifelong relationship.

Exciting Events at Peek A Book Festival 2025

This year, the festival is back with an amazing range of events, including book events and engaging storytelling sessions. Some highlights of the festival include:

●      Meet national award winning animator Suresh Eriyat who’ll narrate ghost story sagas from P.N.K Panickers Ghost Stories

●      Meet award winning children's authors Asha Nehemiah for The Grand Chapati Contest

●      Explore the wonders of the ocean with JGII’s Ocean Are Us programme and dive into stories with Bhavna Faizullulabhoy

●      Explore how stories and emotions can beexpressed with the body with Founder-Director, Junoon,Mythili Zatakia

●      Learn how to create emotionally safe environments where children feel free to speak led by Filmmaker and Editor Poorva Bhatand and Impact Producer Anupama Mandloi