Rose Ayling-Ellis Launches Children’s Book at Folkestone Festival

Rose Ayling-Ellis, the BAFTA-winning actress known for her groundbreaking work in television, is set to celebrate the launch of her first children’s book, Marvellous Messages, during the Folkestone Book Festival. The event will take place on November 15, 2023, at the Quarterhouse in Folkestone, where she will interact with fans and share insights about her literary debut.

The book follows the adventures of her cat, Halo, and a magical tour guide named Perky the Pigeon. Together, they embark on a time-travelling journey to uncover the history of communication. Ayling-Ellis will not only discuss the themes of her book but will also reflect on her impressive career milestones, including her role as the first deaf presenter of the Paralympics and her victory on Strictly Come Dancing in 2021.

The event is part of a broader festival programme, which runs from November 13 to November 23, 2023. During her talk, Ayling-Ellis will engage the audience with interactive elements, such as a quiz and an opportunity to learn British Sign Language (BSL).

Festival Highlights and Notable Speakers

The Folkestone Book Festival promises a rich lineup of speakers, with the opening event featuring Amanda Knox. Knox will discuss her new memoir, Free: My Search for Meaning, which recounts her wrongful conviction in the murder of her roommate, Meredith Kercher, in Italy in 2007.

Other notable guests scheduled to appear include Rupert Everett, Joanne Harris, Will Young, Harry Baker, Mark Haddon, and Irvine Welsh. The festival has been curated by local writer Sophie Haydock, ensuring a diverse and engaging programme for attendees.

Tickets for Ayling-Ellis’s talk can be booked online, and attendees can expect an hour-long session filled with inspiration, laughter, and learning. With the festival showcasing a variety of voices and stories, it stands as a significant cultural event in the region.