A group of young authors has come together to celebrate their hometown in a new publication titled “The Book of Bedford.” This collaborative effort features the creativity and imagination of students from four primary schools: Brickhill, King’s Oak, Priory, and Putnoe. The guide features the amazing work of local artists Katie Allen, Andy Field and Beckie Darlington. It showcases many diverse attributes of Bedford, making for a colorful and dynamic ode to the town.
Bedford Educational Association, The Harpur Trust, the Gale Family Charity Trust and Arts Council England are all delighted to support this project. Its purpose is to excite the imaginations of young minds and nurture a passion for writing and storytelling. The book is an inspiring illustration of the students’ beautiful creative talents. It acts as an indispensable tool for both locals and tourists alike looking to see Bedford in a whole new light.
While local art helps enliven the area, The Book of Bedford brings together drawings and short stories to create a colorful portrait of the region’s hidden gems. The best parts are the magical realism stories revolving around Russell Park and the bordering river. These stories have inspired the creative ideas of a myriad of contributors.
Zoshia has a positive view of Russell Park. She loves its climbing frames and the picturesque setting by the Thames river. This feeling rings true all across the book, as each student tells us through their illustrations what they love most about Bedford.
Aiéhla could hardly contain her excitement at how the book had transformed her perspective of their town. “It will change my perspective of Bedford quite a bit. I’m like, Bedford’s awesome,” she remarked. So, that sense of pride is echoed across all the other contributors.
Riccardo applauded the guide’s value as an educational tool. He added, “It’s great humor, but more subtly, you come to learn more about Bedford. Emmanuel pointed out that it “tells you all the secret caves and just a lot of things we love about Bedford.” These impressions speak to the story’s compassion as well as craft, drama that entertains readers while inspiring them to learn more about their community.
The Book of Bedford is available as a free download for practitioners interested in its detailed content. It is available at the Eagle Gallery on St Peters Street. For many students, this project has not only allowed them to express themselves but provided them with a platform to showcase their love for their town.
Madina captured the essence of the book succinctly: “It totally definitely slays. That’s the main reason you should get it.”
