Kalamunda Readers’ Festival, March 2026

Kalamunda is a beautiful town in the Perth hills, which in 2026 is holding its inaugural Readers’ Festival! I’ve got a bunch of events over the weekend – see below for details.

March 21: How to Create a Graphic Novel with James Foley

Join acclaimed author and illustrator James Foley for an inspiring and hands-on session that unlocks the secrets of graphic novel creation.

In this engaging two hour workshop, James will guide participants through the creative process of creating unforgettable illustration driven stories. Learn how to develop compelling characters, structure a visual narrative, and bring your story to life through illustration and layout.

If you love drawing, are an emerging visual storyteller, or have always wanted to create your own visual story but aren’t sure where to start, this session offers a rare and comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at how graphic novels are made. Whether you’re sketching your first panel or dreaming of publishing your own graphic novel, this is your chance to learn from one of Australia’s best.

Let your imagination take shape!

Date: Saturday 21 March 2026
When: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Where: Zig-Zag Cultural Centre – Seminar Room
Ages: 13+.

Sunday 22 March: Storytime with local Children’s Authors featuring James Foley & Renée Treml

Join us for a magical storytelling experience at our special Children’s Day: Storytime session, where imagination comes to life!

This exciting session is a rare opportunity to hear live readings by beloved local Children’s Authors such as James Foley and Renée Treml, sharing their own stories straight from the heart.

This special family event is a celebration of the incredibly talented local Children’s Authors we have in WA. Come along and spark your child’s love of reading with a session full of laughter, wonder, and community spirit.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase signed copies of these featured stories through the Children’s Author Stalls at the Kalamunda Community Learning Centre or via the Dymocks pop-up stand in the Hall of Stars at the Agricultural Hall for books by James Foley & Renée Treml.

Bookings are kindly requested. Tickets are FREE or admission is included with the Children’s Day – Day Pass.

Date: Sunday 22 March 2026
When: 12:30pm – 1:00pm
Where: Kalamunda Community Learning Centre 
Tickets: FREE

Sunday 22 March – Spontaneous Stories! with James Foley

Get ready for a storytelling adventure like no other! Join award-winning author and illustrator James Foley for a wildly creative and interactive session where YOU help shape the story!

In this one-of-a-kind workshop, James will create a brand-new ILLUSTRATED story – LIVE and on the spot, based entirely on suggestions from the audience. From quirky characters to unexpected plot twists, families will see their ideas come to life before their eyes! This funny and increadible creative session is perfect for families! Come along and help create a story that’s never been told before!

Date: Sunday 22 March 2026
When: 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Where: Kalamunda Community Learning Centre

SIGNING TABLE TIMES

I’ll be at the signing table at these times:

  • Saturday 21 March, 12:30pm – 1:00pm
  • Sunday 22 March, 3:00pm – 3:30pm

Where: Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre – Agricultural Hall – Dymocks Pop-up Book Stand

Unknown's avatar

Author: James Foley

James Foley makes children’s books for children who read books. If you’re a child and you’re eating his books, you’re doing it wrong. His books include the Secret Agent Mole graphic novel series, the S.Tinker Inc graphic novel series, and the multi-award winning Stellarphant. James lives in Perth with his wife, 2 kids, and a labrador. He is a massive Marvel movie nerd and comes from a long line of queuing enthusiasts. Follow him on socials ( @jamesfoleybooks ) or at www.jamesfoley.com.au .