Cambridge Junction, in collaboration with Cambridge Room and Cambridge University Press & Assessment are excited to launch the Book of Cambridge, the culmination of a unique project made with children from primary schools across Cambridge.

Working with artists Andy Field and Beckie Darlington the Book of Cambridge project has empowered local children to describe Cambridge in their own words, exploring both real and imagined versions of the city.

The guidebook, co-created with over 100 learners from Orchard Park, St Laurence Catholic, Milton Road Primary Schools, weaves together real facts and helpful information with made up stories and wild speculation.

Adults are now invited to see Cambridge through the eyes of these children, offering a fresh perspective on familiar and lesser-known parts of the city.

The Book of Cambridge was officially launched at Cambridge Junction on Wednesday 05 February at an event hosted by the book’s young authors. They read some of their favourite passages from the guidebook and asked some unusual questions of the adult residents of the city. There was also an opportunity for those attending to have their copy of the book signed.

Like every guidebook, the Book of Cambridge is both a map and an incantation, showing its readers the way and inscribing familiar places with new meaning. It is an opportunity to reconsider who tells the stories that define the identity of our towns and cities, and how we can begin to empower people to tell new stories, and challenge those with power to listen to them.

Download The Book of Cambridge or listen to the audio book here

Commissioned by Cambridge Junction, in partnership with Cambridge University Press & Assessment and Cambridge Room.

Photos by Liam Togher.