THE Yorkshire Festival of Story has announced some of its participating storytellers, authors, and artists, including a folklore expert, a broadcaster and journalist, and the author of children's novel Skellig.

Hosted by arts charity Settle Stories, this year’s event will focus on the theme: "How can stories promote action towards a kinder, more sustainable, and inclusive future?"

More than 50 events will make up the programme, from workshops and talks to performances and family-friendly events, including a special schools programme.

The festival aims to demonstrate that storytelling can be a force for social good.

In addition to the main programme, a daily exhibition at Settle's Listening Gallery, entitled Happy Ever After?, will invite visitors to reimagine the story of Cinderella with an emphasis on alternative pathways and personal responsibility.

At the end of each day, participants will have the opportunity to relax and wind down with hypnotherapy and yoga nidra sessions.

Headliners include award-winning broadcaster and journalist Zeinab Badawi, who will present An African History of Africa, exploring how historical narratives shape our understanding of the present.

Nikesh Shukla, author of novels including Coconut Unlimited and The Time Machine, will talk about activism, how storytelling has shaped his view of the world, and how diverse voices can change our perspective.

The 25th anniversary of Skellig will be celebrated with a talk by David Almond, who will share his inspirations and creative process and describe how literature can inspire us all to imagine a better world.

Folklore scholar Jack Zipes' talk, Buried Treasures, will uncover the hidden gems of nineteenth and twentieth-century political fairy tales, examining how these stories have been used to challenge injustice and economic exploitation.

Other headliners include storyteller and author, Annette Simmons; author of Ariadne and Elektra, Jennifer Saint; environmentalist and adventurer, John Francis; storyteller Dominic Kelly; and Matt Coyne, of the blog ManVsBaby, who will share his unique perspective on parenting.

Sita Brand, CEO of Settle Stories, said: "The theme for YFOS 2024 challenges us to think deeply about the role stories play in shaping our world.

"Through the voices of our incredible line-up, we aim to inspire action towards a kinder, more sustainable, and inclusive future.

"We invite everyone to join us in this important conversation."

The Yorkshire Festival of Story will take place from November 1 to November 10.

Ticket information and the event schedule are available at yorkshirefestivalofstory.com.