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The Children’s Publishing Picnic returns to Regent’s Park, an informal celebration of children’s publishing

By John Freeman on May 22, 2023

Here’s a date for published authors and illustrators and publishing houses – the return of The Children’s Publishing Picnic, a fun, chilled gathering for like minded folk, taking place in Regent’s Park, London, on Saturday 29th July 2023.

A totally informal, relaxed event – Bring Your Own food, chairs, etc. – it’s described as the perfect excuse to meet lots of children’s publishing folk over a Scotch Egg and a fizzy Tizer!

“Last year was amazing, but let’s make this one even better!” enthuses award-winning author, illustrator and podcaster Steven Lenton. “Authors, illustrators, designers, editors, publicists, sales/marketing, MD’s, dogs – all welcome!”

“It’s not a networking situation,” he emphasises on Twitter, “just friends, fun, gossip and catching up!

“Bring food, drinks and a blanket and prepare to have a super fun afternoon!”

• The Children’s Publishing Picnic 2023, Regent’s Park, London 1.00 – 5.00pm Saturday 29th July 2023 | Bookmark the Twitter Thread Here | Steven Lenton Linktree |

• Official Guide to Regent’s Park – Getting There, Facilities and Other Information

• Studio Mate Steve Podcast

Steven produces a podcast where he chats to other children’s book illustrators about their life, work, career and anything else they wish to divulge. Also publishing tips and tricks, advice and gossip!

You can listen to the introductory episode wherever you usually listen to your favourite podcasts, simply search ‘Studio Mate Steve’ – check out all the links you need here

John Freeman

The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.

Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.

He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.