This weekend saw us head off on another spooky family adventure — this time to the picturesque market town of Market Harborough for the Book Extravaganza 2025. I attended as Paranormal Author Catherine Green, showcasing my vampire and werewolf novels alongside an incredible line-up of authors and traders.

It was an early start, a two-hour drive from home, and a full-on day of literary excitement… but we loved every minute of it!

Family Adventures at the Market Harborough Book Extravaganza

As always, my daughters were right there with me, sharing in the experience and making memories that we’ll treasure for years to come. They are growing up so fast, and it fills me with pride to see how much they enjoy being part of my author life. They brought their own sparkle to the event — singing cheerfully, playing together, and chatting with fellow authors on the neighbouring tables. Their joyful energy was contagious, and they kept everyone around us entertained throughout the day. Several authors commented on how lovely it was to see children enjoying themselves so much at a book event — and it made me smile to know that we are building something special as a family.

My Girls are my Biggest Supporters

My girls are my biggest supporters. They help set up my table, they take photos and videos for social media (they’re naturals!), and now they’re even beginning to read my books — under supervision, of course. My novels do have mature themes, but my eldest daughter is a teenager and already fascinated by the paranormal and magical worlds I create. It feels like a beautiful full-circle moment to be a literary role model for my own children, showing them that creativity, passion, and hard work can come together to build something magical.

My husband offered his support in his usual quiet and steady way — by driving us all to and from the event and keeping us organised. I’m grateful for his help and patience, especially after such a long day! While I spent the day rooted behind my book table, chatting with readers and fellow authors, my family had a little time to explore the town. They discovered the New Look store, which led to my younger daughter finding a whole new outfit she absolutely loved — very on-trend and perfect for her stylish tween aesthetic.

But the biggest highlight for her? Finding the LitPins and Co stall at the event, featuring all sorts of fabulous Heartstopper merchandise. We couldn’t resist picking up a collectible Nick and Charlie pin badge — and she absolutely adores it. It’s the little surprises like these that make these days out feel extra magical.

We must Return to Market Harborough Soon

We did manage a short walk around Market Harborough at the end of the day, and we stumbled across a fascinating medieval building standing on stilts in the centre of town. Once a grammar school, it also served as a shelter for market traders during stormy weather. We didn’t have time to explore properly, but the town’s historical charm left an impression. We all agreed that we must return soon — maybe during the school summer holidays — and take the time to explore the area properly. Who knows what spooky inspiration I might find among the cobbled streets and old buildings?

All in all, it was a fantastic family day out. Yes, I was there to work — to promote my books and connect with readers — but it never feels like work when I have my family beside me, sharing the journey. My daughters are growing into confident, creative young women, and I am so lucky to have them walking this path with me.

Watch this space — the next generation of spooky storytellers might be closer than we think… 👻📚💜

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE short story from the Redcliffe Novels series by Catherine Green. Click here.