Readers and families in London are in for a culturally rich, story-filled experience as Jasbinder Bilan, one of the UK’s most acclaimed children’s authors, headlines an exciting event at the Barnes Children’s Literature Festival. Taking place on Saturday, 21 June at the Barnes Green Centre on Church Road, London SW13 9HE, the event will offer young audiences the exclusive opportunity to meet the Costa Children’s Book Award winner and hear about her latest novel, Naeli and the Secret Song. Known for blending adventure, history, and folklore into captivating tales for young readers, Bilan’s newest book promises to enchant and empower children with themes of identity, bravery, and the magic of self-discovery.
Organised as part of the UK’s largest dedicated children’s literature festival, the interactive session will be tailored for children and families, giving them the chance to connect directly with the author. Jasbinder will introduce Naeli and the Secret Song, a beautifully written historical adventure set against a richly imagined landscape, infused with cultural heritage, ancient songs, and mysterious secrets. Young readers will not only get to hear excerpts from the book but also take part in a vibrant Q&A and creative activities designed to ignite their imaginations and deepen their love of storytelling.
Bilan, who first gained national recognition with her bestselling debut Asha & the Spirit Bird, continues to draw on her Himalayan roots to craft stories that reflect diverse voices and underrepresented narratives. Naeli and the Secret Song continues this tradition, following a courageous young girl who must unlock the secrets of her ancestry while navigating a journey of self-belief and resilience. Her work has been praised for its lyrical prose, emotional depth, and authentic representation of South Asian heritage — qualities that have resonated with readers, educators, and literary critics across the UK.
This event is ideal for parents, teachers, and young readers looking to experience literature that reflects multicultural Britain and introduces children to worlds that are both fantastical and emotionally real. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for budding writers and readers to learn about the writing process, character development, and the role of cultural identity in fiction.
The Barnes Children’s Literature Festival continues to be a major highlight of the capital’s cultural calendar, championing creativity, learning, and inclusivity through books. The festival has become known not only for its star-studded line-up of authors and illustrators but also for its dedication to nurturing a lifelong love of reading among children of all backgrounds.
Tickets for Jasbinder Bilan’s event and the full festival programme can be booked via Eventbrite. Early reservation is recommended due to high demand and limited seating.
Don’t miss this magical afternoon of stories, imagination, and inspiration with one of Britain’s most powerful literary voices in children’s fiction. Whether you're a fan of her previous novels or discovering her work for the first time, this is an unmissable event that promises to be as meaningful as it is memorable.
