Discover Maria's Island - storytelling session

Join Lepra historian and author Irene Allen for a storytelling session bringing to life the book Maria's Island. Maria's Island is a children's novel written by Lepra Ambassador and best selling author Victoria Hislop. The story follows a family impacted by leprosy, the challenges they face and how they overcome them. This event ties in with an exhibition A New Face for Leprosy on display in Colchester Library from 1 to 31 October. For over a centry Lepra has worked to diagnose, treat and care for poeple affected by leprosy. This New Face exhibition challenges the myths and perceptions associated with this neglected tropical disease. The storytelling session is free and is aimed at children aged 7 to 12. No booking is needed.

What to expect:

• When: Friday 30 October 2026, 12pm to 12:30pm
• Where: Colchester Library, Trinity Square, Colchester, CO1 1JB
• Booking: no booking needed
• Cost: free