What is the Gibraltar Literary Festival Schools Programme, and which authors are participating in 2026?
Short answer
The Schools Programme is the young people's strand of the Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival, offering author talks and workshops for pupils of all ages. The 2026 line-up, announced on Wednesday 7 October 2026, features eight international and seven local authors and is sponsored by the John Mackintosh Hall Educational Trust.
Detailed answer
What it is
The young people's strand of the Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival, run by Gibraltar Cultural Services and sponsored by the John Mackintosh Hall Educational Trust. The main festival runs from Monday 9 November 2026 to Sunday 15 November 2026.
International authors 2026
- Christopher Lloyd: The Story of Gibraltar, 100 key moments in the Rock's history.
- Beth O'Brien: 2026 Carnegie Medal for Writing winner, Wolf Siren, on identity, courage and disability representation.
- Anne Sebba: The Women's Orchestra of Auschwitz.
- John Suchet OBE: Beethoven and the power of music.
- Khalida Popal: My Beautiful Sisters, teamwork and resilience.
- Joanne Harris OBE: storytelling craft through Sleepers in the Snow.
- Dame Prue Leith DBE: lifelong learning and creativity.
- Dr Alastair Santhouse: mental health and No More Normal.
Local authors 2026
- Karim Vatvani: The Missing Chime
- Christina Marie Giuffré: Dear Friend series
- Richard Garcia MBE: Useless Mouths
- Karl Ullger: Echoes of Legacy
- Natalie Rolling: Princess Penelope's Problem
- Karen Truman: Mama's Treasure Chest
- Shane Dalmedo: Gustavo Bacarisas