Celebrating stories that bring us together

I’m delighted to announce the return of Richmond Reads, our annual season of events celebrating stories and the joy of reading. Now in its third year, the programme will run throughout October and November, bringing together a vibrant mix of events designed to inspire, entertain, and connect.

Richmond Reads is our flagship annual celebration of storytelling, designed to inspire, connect, and engage our diverse communities. This autumn, I warmly invite you to take part in our borough-wide reading challenge.  Read three books or more, and one lucky winner will receive a hamper of goodies!

From bestselling authors to true stories, live performances to creative workshops, Richmond Reads 2025 showcases the transformative power of storytelling.

Here are some of the highlights: 

• Author talks: Hear from acclaimed writers including Mark Billingham, Laurie Gilmore, Harriet Evans, Imran Mahmood, Sophie Hannah, Ravena Guron and many more
• Live performances: Enjoy captivating storytelling from the Crick Crack Club and a glimpse behind the scenes with Teddington based Youth Action Theatre
• Creative workshops: Discover your own storytelling voice with author Kate Davies

What’s more, we have an exciting nonfiction lineup:  

• Frank Thabani Sayi shares his moving memoir of growing up in war-torn Rhodesia
• Karen Bartlett tells the courageous story of Afghan women judges
• Sandra Hempel explores the pioneering history of Britain’s first female police force
• A tribute to R.C. Sherriff, the legendary local playwright and screenwriter behind Journey’s End and Goodbye, Mr. Chips

Events are free or low-cost. Find out more about Richmond Reads.

Wherever you are, you can join our digital read-along - a simple and welcoming way to be part of the Richmond Reads community from the comfort of your own home. We’re also proud to support Get Online Week, with events designed to help residents stay connected, confident, and empowered in the digital world.

Join us this autumn to celebrate the stories that bring us together! 

Share this