Wednesay November 27th 2024

Dear Diary,

I blinked and today’s visit to Innsworth Junior was over. Where did the day go?!? Wherever it disappeared to, it was one I’ll never forget. Louise had done a phenomenal job of getting the word out about my visit, and the pupils couldn’t have been more excited about the day ahead. I think today’s assembly was one of my most favourite ever, with enthusiastic participants from the off, and lots of fun and silliness throughout. The four workshops that followed were also a delight — despite being rather noisy, with whole Year Groups at a time! I handed out 33 certificates throughout the day. But there were so many other poems, stories, and book covers that shone. My dinosaur and I were even written into one of the stories today, which really tickled me. (I don’t ACTUALLY own a dinosaur… just a dragon or two.) It was lovely to see a number of children who were nervous about reading aloud being brave enough to give it a go. They should be very proud of themselves. There were so many questions about how to get a book published, too. It was evident that as well as being avid readers, many of the Innsworth pupils are also aspiring authors. And from the quality of the work produced, I have no doubt many of them will end up writing books of their own. (I may well be returning to Innsworth to talk more about becoming an author soon, so watch this space.) Louise went over and above to promote my visit, and was a great help throughout the day. All the staff got so involved in each of the workshops. And the wonderful Innsworth pupils provided such incredible input, enthusiasm, and help throughout the day. They were a joy to spend time with, and I can’t wait to see them again next year when I return with WARNING: May Contain Dragons. I was lucky enough to have some special librarian helpers throughout the day today, too… and I couldn’t have survived without them at home time, when things went a little crazy as everyone raced to buy a book! I’ve totted up signings and sales, and almost half of the pupils now own a copy of WARNING: Magic Can Be Dangerous!… which is unbelievable!!! And so many of them have already FINISHED reading it — including lovely Noah, who I met the moment I arrived. I’m so chuffed they all took a chance on my debut. And if they enjoy THAT story, I wonder whether any of them will pre-order WARNING: May Contain Dragons.