The bicentenary of Queen Victoria’s birth is being celebrated in a special way by two top children’s book authors this week – including a sentimental visit to the Victorian Market in Inverness.
Queen Victoria was born at Kensington Palace in London on May 24, 1819, becoming the only daughter for Edward the Duke of Kent.
At the age of just 18, she became heir to the throne following the death of her uncle William IV in 1837 as he had no legitimate children who survived to take his place.
Creators of children’s novels ‘Punch’ and ‘A Pattern of Secrets’, writers Barbara Henderson and Lindsay Littleson, will host the signature event on Friday as groups from across the city are transported back in time.
The visit coincides the main plot of Mrs Henderson’s novel ‘Punch’ depicting a huge fire which destroys the Victorian Market Halls in Inverness in 1889.
The story features an escaped prisoner, a dancing bear and a murder as well as a cameo from the Queen herself whilst drawing on real life events and people.
Mrs Henderson said: “Punch features Inverness, Royal Deeside, Edinburgh and Perth among its locations.
“I am visiting them all while my fellow writer Lindsay Littleson is taking her book to the west.
“Both books are based on real events, but there is plenty for the children to imagine. Apart from our two books, it’s hard to find Victorian Scotland in children’s literature.”
During the event, children will be given hands on experience of a range of Victorian items whilst being treated to a reading, quizzes ad improvised drama – geared at celebrating everything from the Victorian era.
The event marks the first of its kind for the English and drama teacher in the Highlands prior to visits including Balmoral, Inverness and Fort William. The locations coincide with featured in both their latest novels.
In addition to school events, Mrs Henderson will mark the occasion with free Saturday family book events drawing on all things Victorian.
The first will take place on Saturday at Waterstones in Inverness between 2pm and 3pm before two sessions on June 8 at the Highland Bookshop in Fort William from 11am until noon and 1.30pm until 2.30pm.