I started out as a storyteller at the Commonwealth Institute in London. Most of the time I wasn't there, though. I was visiting schools around the UK to tell stories and show artefacts from my country of origin. Over the years I must have visited hundreds of schools, libraries and museums, and entertained thousands of children. I even had the pleasure of telling a ghost story in the presence of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at the Commonwealth Institute. They weren't at all frightened.
Today I still enjoy visiting schools and libraries when my writing schedule permits. I do writing workshops, talks about writing and tell stories too.
If you would like me to visit your school, please get in touch with Annie Everall at Authors Aloud. The website address is http://www.authorsalouduk.co.uk/. Or email one of the AA team at . Their phone number is .
I tend to get booked up months ahead, as do any authors worth having in your school, so start organising your book week in good time. It also makes the day much more special if the kids have had a chance to read some of my stories. You probably have some already in your school library, or you can order my latest titles through this site or directly from amazon. Waterstones tend to stock my Greek Myths and the big gift books.
what teachers say about my school visits:
I just wanted to say a huge thank you from everybody at school today. We have all had a great day and the children were really buzzing after meeting and working with you.
Lauren Scott, Wellington Primary, January 2015
I am writing to warn you that there are a number of letters on their merry way to you. Year Three absolutely loved your visit here at Kelvin Grove, and we have talked about it almost every day since.
Alice Green, Kelvin Grove Primary, London. January 2013
By far the best author student interaction i have viewed. Your presentations were spellbinding!
- Kerry Heywood, Holbeach Primary, London, July 2012
The children are still talking about your visit. Our school library is lending out all your books much more often and we have been asked when you will be coming again. Thanks so much for an amazing day.
- Tracey Bentley, Christ Church School, Skipton June 2012
Dear Saviour, Thank you so much for coming to our school! The staff and children couldn't stop singing your praises and were so impressed with you. I am glad you had a good day and appreciate all the input you gave in encouraging our pupils to read and write. Once again thank you and take care!
- Rebecca Hubbard, literary co-ordinator, Southville Primary, Feltham. March 2012
Thank you so much for a wonderful day. The children and staff thoroughly enjoyed listening to you and your amazing recount of Billy's Magic Tail.
The workshops were very informative and pitched at exactly the right level for the junior classes. I know they learnt a lot and enjoyed the learning experience at the same time. We very much hope that you will be able to visit our school again in the future.
- Mrs C. Kissinger, acting Headteacher, St Mary's Catholic Primary, Isleworth. March 2011
We loved it! There's a real buzz here after your visit! Please come again!
- Sharon Pierson, GROVE PARK JUNIOR SCHOOL, London
March 2011
