As spring is sprung over Suffolk and the days stretch a little longer, there’s no better time to dive into the stories, conversations and creative moments happening across the county.
April’s Born & Read round‑up brings together a vibrant mix of arts festivals, author events and family workshops.
Whether you’re looking to discover new writing, meet the authors shaping today’s literary landscape or simply curl up with fellow bibliophiles to discuss a book, this month’s programme offers something for readers of every age and appetite.
Here are a selection of upcoming reading and storytelling events to add to your calendar:
EVERY SATURDAY
Saturday Stories at Sudbury Library
- Sudbury Library, Market Hill
- 10.15am
- Free drop‑in, details via Suffolk Libraries
A short and friendly Saturday‑morning story session featuring specially chosen picture books to spark children’s imaginations and ease them into the weekend.
TUESDAY, APRIL 7
Kessingland Book Club
- Kessingland Library, Hall Road
- 4-6pm
- £1, details via Suffolk Libraries
A friendly, informal monthly book group where readers explore a new title each month and chat about bestselling fiction, classics and hidden gems in a welcoming community space.
THURSDAY, APRIL 9
Wordplay at Leiston
- Leiston Library, Main Street
- 10.30-11am
- Free drop‑in, details via Suffolk Libraries
A cheerful weekly session of stories, songs and rhymes for babies and toddlers under five – a welcoming space for little ones to explore language, rhythm and early communication in a fun, friendly setting.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10
Book Launch: Thoughtlands by Jacky Colliss Harvey
- Aldeburgh Bookshop, Aldeburgh
- 6-8pm
- Free entry, details at aldeburghbookshop.co.uk
Writer Jacky Colliss Harvey launches her new book, an exploration of the deep connections between landscape, walking and the literary imagination. Blending history, nature and the words of figures from Daniel Defoe to W. G. Sebald, she reflects on Suffolk’s influence on writers past and present.
MONDAY, APRIL 13
Waterstones Sudbury Book Club
- Waterstones, North Street
- 6pm
- Free, details via Waterstones Sudbury
This month’s read is Flashlight by Susan Choi – a spellbinding family saga spanning post‑war Japan, suburban America and the North Korean regime. All are welcome, whether you’ve finished the book or are just curious to join the discussion.
THURSDAY, APRIL 16 – SUNDAY, APRIL 19
INK Festival 2026
- Various venues, Halesworth, Suffolk
- From £40, book via INK Festival
A four‑day celebration of new writing showcasing original short plays, comedy, poetry, talks, workshops and performances from writers, directors and actors across the UK.
Audiences can explore an eclectic programme of fresh, imaginative work plus special events, workshops, youth activities and a relaxed, family‑friendly final day.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22
Storytime with the National Literacy Trust
- East Point Pavilion, Royal Plain, Lowestoft
- 12.30-1.15pm
- Free drop‑in, details via East Point Pavilion
A National Literacy Trust storytelling session for under‑5s, featuring a shared story with a Literacy Champion, followed by time to explore bookshelves, toys and simple activities.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23
The Cartographic Fool by Mike Sauter
- Waterfront Building, University of Suffolk
- 6-8pm
- Free, booking via University of Suffolk
Join Associate Professor Michael J. Sauter for an evening exploring his new book, which uncovers the story of the 16th‑century “Fool’s Cap Map”. Sauter delves into cartography, religion and visual culture in Renaissance Europe, revealing how maps shaped belief and identity.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29
An Evening with Rob Parsons
- Beacon Church, Bury St Edmunds
- 7.30-10pm
- From £6, book here
An inspiring evening of storytelling in which bestselling author and speaker Rob Parsons reflects on a lifetime of overcoming adversity, reshaping limiting labels, and finding hope through resilience and relationships.
The Writer’s Room
- Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds
- 7-9pm
- £30 per term, booking via Theatre Royal
A relaxed, peer‑to‑peer creative writing group offering a supportive space to explore ideas, develop new work and meet other writers. Across two hours, participants can draft, share and receive feedback, with optional opportunities to take part in guest workshops or submit writing for the annual Writer’s Room Showcase performed by professional actors.
This article is part of Born & Read in Suffolk – a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing and Suffolk Community Libraries, sponsored by Sizewell C and and Suffolk Coastal Port Health Authority, and supported by Ipswich Town Football Club. Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk
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