The Family Behind CBBF UK
The Children’s Black Book Fair UK (CBBF UK) was founded by award-winning educator, author and publisher Juliet Coley (Bremmer), her son, award-winning entrepreneur and author of 9 books, Romeo Bremmer, and daughter, international publicist Yazmin McKenzie. Together, they created CBBF UK with one simple mission: to ensure every child can see themselves in the stories they read, and believe that they belong in every story. Launched in August 2024, the Children’s Black Book Fair UK has quickly become Europe’s leading Children’s Black Book Fair, celebrating Black children’s books, young authors, family reading and positive representation. The free annual event brings together authors, illustrators, publishers, educators, libraries and families to inspire the next generation of readers and writers in a joyful, inclusive space where everyone is welcome.
The Family Behind CBBF UK
The Children’s Black Book Fair UK is more than a book fair. It is a cultural platform created to bring Black children’s stories into the centre of the room.
For too long, many children have grown up without seeing themselves fully represented in the books they read, the characters they meet and the stories they are invited to imagine. CBBF UK exists to change that by creating a welcoming space where Black children’s literature, creativity and culture are celebrated with pride.
The fair brings together young readers, families, authors, publishers, illustrators, storytellers, educators and community partners. It is a place where children can discover new books, meet the people behind the stories, take part in creative activities and experience the joy of being represented.
At its heart, CBBF UK is about belonging. It is about helping children feel seen, heard and celebrated through stories that reflect their identity, imagination and future.
Young LIT Stars & UNSUNG
Their journey began much earlier. In 2015, they founded Young LIT Stars, a publishing house that publishes beautiful Black books written by beautiful Black children.
This pioneering publishing initiative has helped over 70 children become published authors, empowering young people to tell their own stories, document legacy and inspire thousands more to discover the power of reading and writing.
In March 2025, they launched UNSUNG, a free online KidsZine led by Romeo and written, edited and produced by young Black published authors aged 6–16.
Through interviews, features, creative writing and positive role models, UNSUNG gives young voices a platform while celebrating the achievements, history and contributions of heroes and sheroes within the UK Black community.
Books from the Young LIT Stars Family
What We Celebrate
CBBF UK celebrates the stories, people and creative voices that help children feel connected to literature, culture and community.
- Black children’s literature
- Representation in books and storytelling
- Young readers and future voices
- Authors, illustrators, poets and storytellers
- Families, schools and community partners
- Creativity, culture and imagination
A Space for Children, Families and Stories
The Children’s Black Book Fair UK is designed to feel welcoming, joyful and accessible. It is a space where children can browse books, take part in activities, listen to stories, meet creatives and enjoy being part of a wider community.
For families, it is an opportunity to discover books and experiences that speak to identity, culture and imagination. For authors and publishers, it is a platform to connect with readers and share meaningful work. For communities and partners, it is a chance to support a movement that places children, stories and representation at the heart of the conversation.
Celebrating Black children’s literature, creativity, culture and community across the UK.
browse
Contact and adress
- hello@litstarsgroup.com
- 074 29481305
- Dalston CLR James Library 24–30 Dalston Lane London E8 3AZ