Black creativity is a force to be reckoned with, yet it often goes unnoticed and underappreciated. But what if there was a space where it could truly shine? Enter the Black British Book Festival (BBBF), a celebration that has grown from a modest gathering into Europe’s largest tribute to Black literature. Now in its fifth year, this festival is more than just an event—it’s a movement, a cultural cornerstone, and a defiant statement that Black stories matter.
On a bustling Sunday morning, the Barbican’s usually serene foyer will transform into a hub of energy, conversation, and excitement, all centered around the rich tapestry of Black British storytelling. What began as a one-day festival in 2021, founded by children’s author Selina Brown, has blossomed into a year-round cultural powerhouse. Brown’s motivation? A personal frustration with the publishing industry’s reluctance to embrace Black narratives, exemplified by the dismissive claim that her book wouldn’t sell because of a Black girl on the cover. Today, the BBBF hosts three major festivals across the UK, collaborates with iconic events like Glastonbury, and even launched a children’s book festival headlined by Sir Lenny Henry.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the festival thrives, the publishing industry’s commitment to Black literature seems to be waning. The post-2020 boom, fueled by the Black Lives Matter movement, now appears to have been a fleeting spike rather than a lasting shift. Despite a 56% rise in sales of books by writers of color in 2021, leading Black literary figures argue that UK publishing is less accessible to Black authors today than it was five years ago. A recent report even revealed a ‘catastrophic decline’ in children’s books featuring Black main characters. So, is the industry truly committed to diversity, or was it just a trend?
This year’s BBBF lineup is a testament to the resilience and brilliance of Black creativity, featuring luminaries like Denise Lewis, Marcus Ryder, Jordan Stephens, and June Sarpong. With 36 events spanning political discussions, children’s storytelling, and workshops for aspiring writers, the festival is a celebration of Black thinking in all its forms. ‘We don’t celebrate the joy of Black creativity enough,’ says Ryder, co-founder of the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity. Stephens adds, ‘The Black British experience is unique—it’s about constantly battling a perceived idea of Britishness and finding your place within it.’
And this is the part most people miss: The BBBF isn’t just about books; it’s about community. In a time of rising political tension and cultural division in the UK, the festival offers a space where Black voices can set their own agenda, free from external narratives. ‘This is about us defining what we need as Black people,’ Ryder emphasizes. Stephens echoes this sentiment, reflecting on the enduring nature of Britain’s imperialist legacy and the importance of celebrating Black excellence in the face of adversity.
Yet, the festival also highlights the limitations of representation. Stephens points out the ‘October effect’—the surge in interest during Black History Month followed by silence. The BBBF, however, stands as a year-round assertion of cultural permanence, a reminder that Blackness is not fleeting but foundational. Ryder draws parallels to the Harlem Renaissance, emphasizing the power of community in fostering creativity and intellectual growth. ‘Once you have that community,’ he says, ‘great literature, great thinking, and great art will flow from it.’
As the UK grapples with a new cultural consensus that often marginalizes Black voices, the BBBF is more vital than ever. It’s not just a response to hostility but a proactive celebration of Black achievement. But here’s the question: Can the publishing industry catch up, or will Black literature continue to be treated as a niche? And what role should state funding play in ensuring underrepresented voices are heard? The BBBF doesn’t wait for answers—it creates them. Join the conversation, celebrate Black creativity, and be part of a movement that’s rewriting the narrative. The Black British Book Festival is at the Barbican, London, on 19 October—don’t miss it.
