This year’s BWF, as it is affectionately known by locals, runs from September 9–13. While the main program is still being finalised, the Festival has released details of its youth literature program, Word Play.

The jam–packed program celebrates both Queensland’s sesquicentenary and the Year of Creativity in the Department of Education and Training. Features include a half day program, Write Boldly: Live Faithfully that highlights Queensland artists writing and illustrating work for young people.

These artists include Pamela Rushby, Pat Flynn and Belinda Jeffrey. The State Library of Queensland is running a free online literature festival for young people in regional and remote areas, and slammED, a youth poetry slam and slam workshop for middle and senior years students that culminates in a live performance.

Visiting authors during the Festival include Andy Griffiths (The Day My Bum Went Psycho), Jackie French (Hitler’s Daughter) and many more.

Check out the full program at www.brisbanewritersfestival.com.au.