Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason: To Be Young, Gifted and Black

23 Apr 2026

Doors Open 19:00

Alexandra Palace Theatre

Join us in Alexandra Palace Theatre for a delightful evening of discussion and classical music as Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason introduces her new book To Be Young, Gifted and Black, her impassioned defence of Black excellence in the arts as our North London Book Fest launches with a powerful opening evening of words and music.

Through the experiences of her extraordinarily gifted family, Kadiatu offers profound and candid insights into what it means to grow up as a young Black artist in today’s turbulent times, and searches for a hopeful way forward.

The evening will feature live performances by Braimah and Konya Kanneh-Mason, bringing charming musical interludes to the discussion.

A former lecturer in English at the University of Birmingham, Kadiatu is the award-winning author of House of Music: Raising the Kanneh-Masons and now To Be Young, Gifted and Black.

The discussion will be chaired by Jeffrey Boakye, acclaimed writer, broadcaster, and educator. Author of Hold Tight, Black, Listed: Black British Culture Explored, and I Heard What You Said, Boakye is known for his insightful work on race, masculinity, and culture, and co-hosts BBC Radio 4’s award-winning music programme Add to Playlist.

This event is for music lovers, and anyone passionate about social justice and the stories that shape cultural change.

Age recommendation 14+

North London Book Festival

‘This exceptional book, written with a mother’s love for her seven creative children, sensitively offers profound and original insights and perspectives that enrich our culture. I feel so much wiser for reading it.’

BERNARDINE EVARISTO

‘Kanneh-Mason’s analysis is sharp and nuanced, while her writing often zings with poetry. A powerful, commendable book.’

BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE

‘Kadiatu has written a suitably unique and fascinating account of how day-to-day life works in an extraordinary household.’

JULIAN LLOYD WEBBER
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23 Apr 202619:0019:3020:30

Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason: To Be Young, Gifted and Black

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‘This exceptional book, written with a mother’s love for her seven creative children, sensitively offers profound and original insights and perspectives that enrich our culture. I feel so much wiser for reading it.’

BERNARDINE EVARISTO

‘Kanneh-Mason’s analysis is sharp and nuanced, while her writing often zings with poetry. A powerful, commendable book.’

BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE

‘Kadiatu has written a suitably unique and fascinating account of how day-to-day life works in an extraordinary household.’

JULIAN LLOYD WEBBER
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