New Year. New Book. A Proper North East One.
Saturday 24th January 2026 11.00am – 12.00 midday
Start the year with something special, not just a new book, but a celebration of North East storytelling, laughter, and local pride.
Seven Stories invites you to a unique, intimate book launch that supports the National Centre for Children’s Books and champions home-grown talent.
With only 25 tickets available, this is a rare chance to be part of something truly special. Every ticket includes a signed first edition of Stottie Cake, a book baked with humour, heart, and unmistakable North East flavour.
Join much-loved broadcaster and illustrator Alfie Joey, author Richard O’Neill MBE, and editor/book designer Michelle Russell for an unforgettable, fun-filled event for children and grown-ups alike.
What’s in store?
- A hilarious live reading from Alfie Joey of Auntie Valerie and her rogue Stottie as it sets off on its mischievous journey through Newcastle
- A lively draw-along session, where Alfie and Michelle reveal how illustrations come to life and what really goes into making a children’s book
- A chance to ask Richard O’Neill MBE about where story ideas come from, and discover the real inspiration behind Auntie Valerie’s Stottie.
This is storytelling as it should be: joyful, local, and shared together.
Tickets
- £10 – One adult & one child
- £15 – Family ticket (two adults & two children)
Every penny of the ticket price goes directly to Seven Stories, helping to support its vital work inspiring future readers and storytellers.
Places are extremely limited, once they’re gone, they’re gone.
Come along, have a laugh, take home a beautiful book, and be part of a proper North East story.
Event tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable unless cancelled by Seven Stories. Seven Stories reserves the right to amend or cancel events as necessary and will a full refund in case of cancellation.