On Friday, February 5 pre-festival events take place including England’s Tales of the Council House Kid - Francis Dunnery’s heartfelt musical memoir of working-class Britain in the 60s and 70s, live at Wolverhampton Arts Centre. Expect powerful storytelling, classic tunes, and uplifting nostalgia. Also, on the same day, join Jaivant Patel Company for a thought-provoking panel spotlighting South Asian voices in publishing, exploring representation, identity, and the future of storytelling through a South Asian lens.

Friday’s lineup is bold and thought-provoking. Kasim Ali returns with Who Will Remain, a powerful new novel exploring the inner conflict of a young man caught between his parents’ hopes and the harsh realities of the streets. It’s a raw, emotional story of identity, loyalty, and survival. In Escape from Kabul, journalist Karen Bartlett joins a former Afghan judge and Anisa Dhanji for a compelling conversation on justice and the fight for women’s rights. Expect stories that challenge perspectives and spark meaningful dialogue.

On Friday night, Blur drummer Dave Rowntree makes a special appearance to share No One You Know - his new book featuring unseen photos, personal memories, and a rare glimpse into the band’s early years from someone who lived it. Folk Singer Beans on Toast joins us at Wolverhampton Art Gallery for a heartwarming and rebellious celebration of the extraordinary characters who’ve inspired his latest book, Wild Folk People.

Saturday in Wolverhampton is packed with literary brilliance. Ben Aitken brings warmth and wit as he discusses his latest book - a tribute to Britain’s often-overlooked towns and cities, including Wolverhampton. Broadcaster Dr Hilary Jones explores Under Darkening Skies, the gripping conclusion to his historical trilogy. He’ll offer insights into his writing process, the medical milestones that inspired the saga, and the historical research behind it. Kit de Waal returns, one of the UK’s most cherished literary voices, for an intimate conversation about her poignant new novel The Best of Everything. Expect a rich discussion on grief, perseverance, and the many forms love can take.

On Sunday, there is a stellar line-up looking at a wide range of genres. Imani Erriu discusses Fallen Stars, the thrilling sequel in her bestselling Heavenly Bodies series, with insights into her creative process and global fanbase. Harry Whitehead dives into White Road, an environmental thriller set in the High Arctic, sharing the real-life research behind its explosive opening and exploration on issues surrounding climate change.

The festival proudly showcases local talent, including: Flexus Dance, performing a special showcase at the Mander Centre; Kupid the King, presents A Sunday Best Story, an intimate journey through the ten-year history of Wolverhampton's acclaimed artist platform at our new partner venue space; Kuli Kohli and Simon Fletcher are leading workshops and poetry events; a Special Midlands Premier of MELT IT, a brand-new, destined-to-become-a-classic feature-length documentary about cult comedy hero, The Iceman, at the Lockworks Cinema; and Poets, Prattlers, and Pandemonialists hosting events at Arena Theatre with the Fringe Rooms and the Wolverhampton Literature Festival’s Poetry Slam 2026, where 15 poets go head-to-head in a fast-paced live poetry competition.

Hosted at Wolverhampton Central Library, this year’s Children’s Festival is packed with exciting, meaningful events for young readers and families. The festival is delighted to present a magical morning with award-winning children’s author Onjali Q. Raúf, who will share the heartwarming and powerful stories behind her beloved books. Her debut, The Boy at the Back of the Class, won both the 2019 Blue Peter Book Award and the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize. Wolverhampton libraries will also be welcoming Steve Frost and Shannon Frost, author and inspiration of My Mum’s a Chameleon, a heartwarming not-for-profit children’s book inspired by his daughter and granddaughter. The story gently explores a family’s journey through cancer, using love and creativity to turn wig-wearing into a joyful game that helps children understand and cope.

This festival is proudly partnering again with the Black British Book Festival to present a vibrant line-up of engaging events for young people and adults. Highlights include My Rice is Best, written by Selina Brown, Founder of the Black British Book Festival, to discuss her laugh-out-loud picture book that celebrates food, friendship, and cultural pride. The festival is also delighted to have Cebo Campbell discuss his novel Sky Full of Elephants.

Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said, “With over 90 events taking place across the city, Wolverhampton Literature Festival 2026 offers something for everyone- whether you're passionate about poetry, curious about new fiction, or looking for family-friendly fun.

“Expect a city-wide celebration of creativity, connection, and culture, where stories come alive and voices from all walks of life are heard. Join us for a festival that’s diverse, dynamic, and full of inspiration.

“I urge everyone to get involved and get their tickets.”

Festival dates: Friday 6 February to Sunday 8 February 2025, with Pre Festival Events starting on the 31 January

Check out the full line-up and get your tickets at Wolverhampton Art Gallery Box Office* or via our website www.wolveslitfest.co.uk.

*For events held at Arena Theatre or Wolverhampton Art Centre, please use the respective venue’s box office.

Wolverhampton Art Gallery is free to visit Monday to Saturday (10.30am - 4.30pm) and Sunday (11am - 4pm). Glaze café is open Monday to Saturday (10.30am - 4pm) and Sunday (11am - 3.30pm). For more information visit www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk.