Stroud Book Festival will launch its 2026 programme with an opening-night event aimed at people who want to find more time, inspiration or motivation to read.
“Rewild Your Reading” will take place on Wednesday 4 November from 7.30pm to 9pm. The event marks the start of the festival’s 10th anniversary year, which coincides with the National Year of Reading.
An evening for adventurous readers
The festival said the event was created in response to the difficulty many people are finding in giving reading the time and attention it requires. It is intended for people who want to broaden their reading horizons, as well as those who are struggling to decide what to read next or to maintain their motivation.
The evening’s panel will feature Sarah Shaffi, Ann Morgan and Robert Douglas-Fairhurst. The festival described the three speakers as expert readers with a wealth of ideas about reading deeply and adventurously.
Organisers said the panellists would offer inspiration for changing the way people read and encourage attendees to “rewild” their reading habits.
Money from tickets to support children’s charity
A share of the profits from ticket sales will go to Read for Good, a national charity based in Nailsworth. The charity works with children and young people, helping to transform their lives through books and stories.
The festival’s announcement also highlighted the wider benefits of reading. The National Year of Reading website says that reading can expand worlds, sharpen minds and fuel creativity, while noting that fewer people are making time for it.
Stroud Book Festival is presenting the opening event as an invitation to make that time, while also helping raise money for Read for Good.
How to book Stroud Book Festival tickets
Tickets for almost all Stroud Book Festival events can be booked online through the Sub Rooms website, by phone via the Sub Rooms Box Office on 01453 796880, or in person at the box office.
The box office is open from Tuesday to Saturday, between 10am and 4pm. Tickets for a small number of events are being sold through other providers, and the festival advises customers to check the individual event information for booking details.
The festival’s 2026 news announcement was published on 23 October 2026. It described the event as a way to help launch the anniversary festival and reconnect people with the pleasure of reading.