Continuing the Story: Beginning Year Two of the GLL Literary Foundation

Over the past year, Books for Keeps has followed the journey of the GLL Literary Foundation as it supported its first cohort of children’s authors across Bromley, Dudley, Greenwich, Lincolnshire and Wandsworth. Now in its second year, the programme is welcoming a new group of authors while continuing to work with those already involved.

Our journey so far in 2026 has been a busy one.

The week before the launch, the Foundation was represented at the London Book Fair, where discussions explored how libraries and publishers can work together to support authors and connect more readers with books. During the Fair, Rebecca Gediking, Library Services Director at GLL, received the Trailblazer Award in recognition of her work in establishing the Foundation. It felt like a moment to acknowledge the collective effort behind the programme, from Literary Foundation Champions and library teams to the authors themselves.

Shortly afterwards, at Battersea Library, authors from the 2026 cohort joined returning writers and Literary Foundation Champions for a national launch and networking event. Publishers, agents and others from across the children’s book world were also there. It was a chance to meet in person, reconnect and begin building relationships.

In this issue, we hear from Penny Chrimes, a Chapter 2 author, and Caroline Nolan, Bromley Literary Foundation Champion.

Being Part of Chapter Two
Penny Chrimes

First things first. Excellent cakes. Wow, those GLL Literary Foundation cakes… But no. Wrong place to start.

When I went to the launch of Chapter 1 of the GLL Literary Foundation at Battersea Library last year, I was bowled over by what a great idea this was.

For children’s authors to be offered support at whatever stage of their journey – advice on early steps with agents and publishers, how to make those daunting school sessions work, how to market your books and how to sustain success … this felt like something so badly needed.

I must admit I felt a little stab of envy. And consoled myself with the excellent cakes (see above).

So when I was offered a place with Chapter 2 this year – what a gift!

I am lucky enough to have five books for Middle Grade published. But as I once heard author Susan Crossan say (One, Gone for Good) – with every new book, you just worry about the next one.

Because it’s a funny old business, being a children’s author.

Most of your time you spend alone at your desk, making up stories and trying not to eat too many biscuits. Laughing at your own jokes and weeping at what your characters are going through.

Part of your time you spend in front of a classroom of children, hoping they won’t bully you and that your books will make them laugh or gasp out loud.

Trouble is, both experiences can feel pretty lonesome.

‘You are not alone’. Those were the welcoming words at this year’s launch. That idea has stayed with me.

I am so looking forward to the year ahead, working with the children’s librarians in Bromley and sharing the journey with my peers.

As I write, we are all on WhatsApp congratulating Adeola Sokunbi for her new deal with Piccadilly Press.

It feels like we are already part of something.

Each author receives a £750 bursary alongside tailored in-kind professional development support valued at up to £4,000. Working with their Literary Foundation Champion, they develop events, build relationships with schools and gain experience in presenting their work.

A Champion’s Perspective
Caroline Nolan

Following a successful first year, the national launch of Chapter 2 at Battersea Library took place in March, with a real sense of anticipation for the year ahead. It was wonderful to see authors, Champions and guests from across the children’s book world come together in one space.

The launch welcomed the new cohort and celebrated the 2025 author alumni, with much to recognise from the past year, including new publications, events and wider opportunities.

As the Literary Foundation Champion for Bromley Libraries, I am working with five authors this year: Abiola Bello, Penny Chrimes, Ryan Crawford, Truly Johnston and Venessa Taylor. Their work spans a range of genres, and I am looking forward to introducing their stories to children across the borough.

I was particularly pleased to meet my new authors alongside colleagues from across the GLL Library Partnerships and to begin planning how we will work together.

For me, building relationships with the authors I am championing and introducing them to new audiences is the most rewarding part of the role, and something I look forward to developing over the coming months.

As the year begins to take shape, authors are starting to plan their first events and connect with schools.

Find out more about the GLL Literary Foundation.