James Mayhew - Childrens' Author, Illustrator and Storyteller

The market town of Bungay sits astride the river Waveney at the northern edge of the county of Suffolk. It is also the home town of multi-talented artist, children's author, illustrator and storyteller James Mayhew. In August 2025 I interviewed him in Bungay. We talked about his early life in the Waveney valley, the inspiration he gained from his parents and sister during his childhood, how he uses his illustration to break down barriers, making music and art more accessible, especially to children, and the collaborations he's had with broadcasters, authors and musicians such as Zeb Soames, Joyce Dunbar, Roger Eno and Jackie Morris. He also recounts the legend of the Bungay Black Dog, or Black Shuck, and talks about the annual Black Shuck Festival, which he helps to organise in the town. I hope you enjoy the discussion.