Simon Fairbanks
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Invite me to speak at your library

​Are you looking for a published author to visit your library?

I'm a professional speaker and trainer, with lots of experience hosting workshops which engage a diverse range of participants.

I love to bring my passion for reading, writing, and publishing into libraries by delivering informative and inspiring sessions.

I'm currently available for sessions to celebrate the following events:
  • National Poetry Day on Thursday 2 October 2025
  • National Author's Day on Saturday 1 November 2025
  • Or any other time that suits 😊

To book your 60-minute session, please drop me an email using the button below. It'll be wonderful to hear from you.
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with a copy of Treat of Trick.
Get in touch

Choose your session ✍️

1. How to enjoy reading


2. How to write your first story


3. How to write your first poem


4. How to get published in a magazine


5. How to read to others with confidence

​
Costs 🐖

1 x 60-minute session - £100
2 x 60-minute sessions - £175
3 x 60-minute sessions - £225
​4 x 60-minute sessions - £300

These costs include any handouts required for the session, a printed copy of my poem or story for every participant, and a takeaway task.

I always cover my own travel expenses, and I don't need to charge VAT.
​
My approach 🎓

I deliver participatory workshop sessions, with lots of interactive discussions and activities. I have an engaging and informal approach to facilitating, so the participants will feel relaxed and comfortable.

My sessions begin with insights into my own author journey, before inviting them to share their own. This is how I began meetings of the Birmingham Writers' Group and it helps people feel at ease, whilst also offering them the chance to develop new relationships.

Each session includes a balance of information and interaction, so participants will learn something and try something in the same session. I use my own original writing as case studies to support the learning, and I'll typically read a short poem or extract within the session.

If you have AV provision, I will use a visual, memorable, and informative slide deck throughout my session. However, I can also host without slides if the technology isn't available!

For added value, I will provide each participant with a copy of my poem or story to keep, and an optional takeaway task sheet. Also, I can share a full session plan with the library before my visit for extra reassurance.

My experience 📚

I have a wide range of experience in the three areas below. Put together, I hope these make me a reliable choice as a guest speaker.

1. Published author
2. Professional speaker
3. Workshop facilitator

You can find further details about each of these areas below.

1. Published author
  • Self-published author of several books for adults
  • Published in literary magazines in four different countries
  • Co-chair of the Birmingham Writers' Group, the oldest writing group in Birmingham.

2. Professional speaker
  • International speaker in the higher education sector
  • Keynote speaker at a variety of university teacher conferences
  • Guest speaker at literary events, such as Edge-Lit, Book To The Future, and the UK Ghost Story Festival.

3. Workshop facilitator
  • Trainer and workshop facilitator for various universities
  • Seasoned chair of panels and roundtable discussions
  • Host of poetry sessions in local primary schools.

Get in touch 👋

To book your 60-minute session, please drop me an email using the button below. I'll happily answer your questions. I can also find time for a short call if that will help your decision. Sometimes it's easier to chat!
Get in touch
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with a copy of Parakeet magazine.
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with his story in Paper Lanterns.
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with his story in Popshot.
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with his story in The Dirigible Balloon.
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with his story in Parakeet.
Author Simon Fairbanks posing with his story in Firewords.
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