What is CALFE?
The History of CALFE
CALFE is majorly delivered by black and dual heritage authors, most of whom are historically marginalised from mainstream publishing. As a result, we experience fewer school, library and festival invitations, as guest authors.
The Children & Authors' Literary Fanfare Event (CALFE)s started in 2021, as a means of reaching families, burdened with keeping their young children entertained, as the pandemic restricted social interactions.
Wellbeing and improved interactions on a professional level within our genre was also expedient. Using the Kiddie-Writes Forum (which I had set up and had been functional since November 2018) as a springboard, online readings and storytelling sessions featuring 15 authors across the globe, kicked off on October 27th 2021, in celebration of Black History Month.
Ever since, CALF-Events has cemented itself as a parent's resource for culturally diverse stories.
However, in October 2023, we held our very first in-person event at beautiful Chelmsford Museum, in the heart of Essex.
Eight authors from all corners of the UK gathered for the literary fanfare, dazzling young readers and their adults with culture stories from Africa and the Caribbean Islands.
We are keen on expanding the repertoire of our culturally diverse stories, across ethnicities.
We are also mindful of aspiring and new authors who present their artistry as a storytelling model and willing to engage with us..
CALFE - The Children & Authors' Literary Fanfare Events
Through CALFE, I collaborate with authors, illustrators and creatives within my genre because in unity lies strength, aware that the task ahead is enormous.
I believe in accessing cultural spaces like museums as within such spaces children better appreciate how diverse heritages highlight their own individuality, uniting all races through a shared history.
I dream of a time when every child and home embraces literature and the rich cultural experiences adorns their bookshelves.
I am convinced that immersing children in books highlighting the wonders of their own and others' culture, inspires curiosity, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the world's diverse tapestry: resulting in a positive impact on society.
