George Webster Inspires at Aberford Literature Festival

Aberford Village Hall was alive with energy last Saturday afternoon as BAFTA award-winning children’s author, actor and CBeebies presenter George Webster took to the stage for a spectacular, sold-out headline event.  

The Leeds-born star brought his trademark enthusiasm to the Aberford Literature Festival delivering a high-energy ‘Causing Chaos with Kids’ session that kept young fans and parents thoroughly entertained with games, dancing, interactive readings and more. Following the session, George stayed to sign his books and meet with his eager fans, cementing his afternoon appearance as one of the undisputed highlights of the festival weekend. 

Turning Pages, Breaking Barriers: How George is Rewriting Children’s Literature  

For generations, children’s bookshelves have been filled with magical creatures, talking animals, and heroic adventures. Yet, for a long time, a crucial element was missing from these vibrant pages: real-world diversity that reflected all readers. Growing up, George never saw a single character who looked like him. Today, he is single-handedly changing that narrative, to champion a message of radical inclusion. 

His literacy journey began with the roaring success of his debut picture book, This Is Me. The book, which was shortlisted for the prestigious illustrated Book of the Year at the British Book Awards, delivers a simple yet profound message: our differences are what makes us magical. 

George has reflected on this and in past interviews he has stated that “there were no books written by or featured anyone with a learning disability”. He went on to state: “I want everyone to understand that being different is great and that it’s important to hear from different people’s voices”. 

The Power of “Why Not?”       

His follow-up picture book, Why Not? takes a deeply personal, autobiographical turn. The rhyming story captures the infectious optimism that has made George a household name. It invites families into his childhood, featuring his younger sister, Lauren and his dad, illustrating how they conquered challenges together- from learning to ride a tandem to climbing mountains. 

The book’s title serves as George’s personal life philosophy.  

“I always say, why not?”, he explained, adding: “Why not do this? Why not do that? And that’s how I came up with the book.”  

From Pictures to Young Fiction    

Not content with conquering early-years literature, George has expanded his reach into young fiction with his series, George and the Mini Dragon, published by Scholastic UK.    

Aimed at readers aged six and older, the books introduce a relatable, high-energy protagonist who navigates daily life, friendship, and the chaotic fun of looking after a mythical pet. 

The fiction series weaves elements of George’s own life into the text, explicitly introducing young readers to how he uses Makaton sign language to communicate when clarity becomes frustrating. Reviewers have praised the series for fostering empathy and understanding without ever losing its upbeat, joyful momentum. 

A Lasting Legacy 

What makes George’s books truly revolutionary is how disability is handled. In his picture books, Down’s Syndrome is never explicitly named in the text. Instead, the bright, inclusive illustrations visually normalise disability, allowing children to see a hero with Down’s Syndrome simply living a joyful, boundless life. 

By rewriting the rules of who gets to be the hero of a story, George is ensuring that the next generation of children will grow up knowing that their unique traits are not barriers, but their greatest strengths. On the pages, as in life, his message remains clear: when faced with a dream, always ask yourself, why not? 

Why Inclusion Enriches Us All 

During my conversation with George’s dad, Rob Webster, I noted how uplifting George is and expressed to his father that he must be incredibly proud. I also noted how captivating he was during his presentation alongside his dad, Rob. “I am so proud of George,” Rob replied, adding: “He has taught me a lot about what’s possible and how we think about the way we live and what brings us joy.” 

When I asked if the core of this journey centres around inclusion, George agreed passionately. “Yes, inclusion is very important, do not exclude anyone,” George emphasised. “Everyone is different in the world and that’s amazing. I was included a lot in school, in classes, and on trips. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Sunshine and Smiles, my schools, my parents, and everyone who has helped me.” 

I mentioned to George that given everything he has accomplished, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he eventually achieved an MBE, an OBE, or even a CBE.  

Rob expanded on how this spirit mirrors the festive atmosphere of the village. “It’s like today in the village of Aberford, we can see the community working together and bringing that sense of ambition with people feeling their own possibilities,” Rob explained. “George brings people together, talking to anyone regardless of them being famous, not famous, having a disability, or not having a disability.  

“It’s about different skills, and that’s the thing about inclusion – If we include other people and see the skills that they have got, that enriches what we can do, and it makes us feel better.”  

George smiled and added a final, powerful thought on the matter: “It’s also about educating people and including everyone, giving opportunities for them to achieve their dreams.”