PHILIPPA PEARCE died over two years ago, but respect and affection for her writing is as strong as ever. In her memory, a series of five lectures is now underway, each intended to celebrate excellence in writing for children.

THE 2008 LECTURE took the form of a direct tribute to Philippa Pearce, and was given by, Victor Watson, David Wood and Julia Eccleshare. Alongside the main talks there were several readings by Samuel West. Transcripts of the talks given by Victor Watson and David Wood can be found here.

THE 2009 LECTURE was given by Michael Rosen. Entitled What is children's poetry for? : towards a new, but child-specific, 'Apologie for Poetrie' (Sir Philip Sidney, 1595). Audio and video streams for the lecture will be available here soon as well as a text transcript.

THE 2010 LECTURE will be given by Michael Morpurgo, and will be held at Seven Stories, The Centre for the Childrens Books, Newcastle

THE 2011 LECTURE will return to Homerton and will be given by Philip Pullman.

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Please note that joining the mailing list will not assure you of a seat at the current lecture. That needs to be done at the booking page, found under lectures in the top menu.