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29 August 2025
11:00 am to 12:15 pm
0-2 years
0-3 years
0-5 years
3-6 years
Children
12.99
lu.ma/bessiesbees
Family
Read
Simply books
Join debut author George Kirk for a playful and heartwarming event inspired by his new picture book, Bessie’s Bees, a beautifully illustrated story about embracing difference and finding your voice.
🎶 Sing along with a live ukulele 💃 Learn to dance like a bumblebee 🎨 Make your very own bee to take home 📖 Snuggle up for a cosy bookshop reading with George
Perfect for children aged 2–6, this interactive event is a gentle, inclusive way to explore big feelings, celebrate neurodiversity, and spark a lifelong love of stories.
Plus every ticket comes with a copy of Bessie’s Bees, which George will sign and dedicate on the day.
About the book: Bessie’s Bees
An uplifting story about starting nursery with a bubbly neurodiverse child at its centre. Written from the heart by debut, neurodiverse author, George Kirk, and illustrations buzzing with charm from Ana Gómez.
Bessie’s head is full of bees, absolutely buzzing with them. And that is just fine. Until one morning, Granny takes them somewhere new. . . NURSERY! Soon Bessie realises that no one else at nursery has bees, so she keeps hers hidden inside. Now Bessie’s head isn’t just buzzing with bees. . . it’s BURSTING with them!
Can Granny help Bessie back to feeling like herself again? And will Bessie find a way to share her bees with everyone in a way that feels right?
This empowering story gives voice to the often complex experiences of growing up with ADHD through the visual, accessible metaphor of bees. Bessie and her bees help readers see themselves represented and also understand those around them. This book offers a universal message for all and is an important addition to everyone’s bookshelf.
Manchester City of Literature is committed to inclusion and accessibility for everyone.
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