Tom Palmer to visit every library in Cornwall during May half-term
Award-winning children’s author Tom Palmer is set to visit every library in Cornwall during the May half-term as part of a countywide celebration of reading.
As Cornwall Libraries’ Ambassador for the Year of Reading, Tom will travel from Penzance to Bude — and everywhere in between — to meet young readers and families across the Duchy.
At each library, he will be talking about his brand-new book, If the Invader Comes, a gripping children’s story inspired by real wartime events in Cornwall. Written for young readers who love adventure and history, the book explores the role Cornwall played during the Second World War.
The first five families through the door at every library event will receive a free signed copy of If the Invader Comes, generously gifted by Tom’s publisher, Barrington Stoke.
Tom said: “I am excited to be taking If the Invader Comes round all Cornwall’s libraries because this is a story about what Cornish people went through during WW2 and that’s important.
“In 1940 it was assumed Cornwall would be invaded by Nazi Germany. Instead, the Duchy was at the forefront of defending Great Britain from that invader and then fighting back to defeat them. I am proud to be helping tell that story through Cornwall’s libraries.”
The tour forms part of Cornwall Libraries’ mission to inspire a love of reading in every child and to celebrate the vital role libraries play in towns, villages and daily life across Cornwall.
Councillor Sarah Preece, cabinet member with responsibility for Tourism, Localism and Planning, said: “It’s fantastic that during the Year of Reading, we are celebrating Cornwall’s rich history and giving young people the chance to discover books inspired by the place they live.
“Having an author travel the length and breadth of Cornwall to share his work is something truly special, and I’m delighted that families across the Duchy will have the chance to be part of it.”
Full tour dates and times will be shared on the Cornwall Council website and the Cornwall Libraries Facebook page.