David Nicholls, Lesley Pearce and Yasmin Alibhai-Brown will be among many high-profile authors, poets and journalists visiting Hendon at the North London Literary Festival in April. Taking place at Middlesex University, and organised by students, the festival, which this year has the theme of ‘personalised’, will feature readings, publishing workshops, writing competitions, and interviews with top authors.

Novelist, journalist and broadcaster Yasmin Alibhai-Brown will be discussing her latest book; historian and broadcaster Juliet Gardiner will be visiting, as will Orange Prize-longlisted Sue Gee, Faber novelist Richard Skinner, and award-winning non-fiction writer Kate Colquhoun.

Lesley Pearce, one of the UK’s best-loved novelists, will discuss her global female fiction success and recent novels.

The event will also embrace modern types of literature, including an exciting and innovative take on gaming narratives – something never seen before at a UK literary festival.

Due to its popularity last year, speed pitching makes a welcome return to the festival. Visitors get the chance to pitch their idea to top Bloomsbury literary agents LBA and receive feedback in regard to the current publishing market.

  • North London Lit Fest takes place at Middlesex University, Hendon Campus, The Burroughs, Hendon, on April 2 and 3. Details: northlondonlitfest.com