The last time I visited Singleton Primary was somewhere around 1991. I was at high school and I went for a couple of weeks to get work experience. The school has changed lots since then but it is still a lovely place filled with cracking kids and fab staff.
As this was my first visit as an author, I shared both books with the children. I explained how I came up with some of the ideas for Impossible Tales and shared an extract with the children. The snippet I read made them chuckle which was really lovely to hear.
I took all of the edited manuscripts from Eric Appleby and talked through the writing process with the children. I told them that first draft isn’t best draft and the magic happens at the editing stage. Throughout the session I tried to link my writing to the children’s writing so hopefully the next time they are told to look again at their work they won’t complain! They got to see the illustrations at the various stages of the process and all agreed that Martin’s pics matched the text. He’ll be chuffed when I tell him. We finished off with a couple of extracts. The children (and staff!) listened beautifully throughout.
I also discussed the children’s dreams and aspirations. We had an NBA basketballer of the future, a couple of international gymnasts, a West End actress and a car salesman who wants to run his own business. It’s refreshing to hear the children talk so openly about their hopes and dreams. It’s just a shame I don’t have time to ask them all. I always tell the kids that they should chase their dreams. If Dan from Blackpool can write books, anyone can do anything!
It was great to chat to some of the children and sign their books after the assembly. I’m looking forward to returning in April to tell some stories and write with the children. Thanks to Mrs Clayton for inviting me in and promoting the event so effectively.