Able Writers
Work isn’t hard when you enjoy it, is it?
Well that’s not entirely true but it certainly helps when you are fortunate enough to do what you enjoy and even more so, be paid for it.
A full day in school with the Authors Abroad Able Writers Programme, is non stop and challenging.
Why challenging?
Because we have to keep the same group of children entertained, interested and focused all day. Not all authors can do that. Quote one author who recently said, ‘I am an author not a teacher.’ In other words, a quick author visit to talk about the latest book and exit.
Hum!
In this case, not so!
And what a wonderful and productive day it was too. My intention to inspire the 26 children in my group, and whilst I believe I did, they inspired me.
How wonderful to see the capabilities of some of the most Able Writers from several schools in the Leeds area. Added to which they were only year 3 and 4. Although these children were coming up to the the end of the school year and were more than ready to transition to year 4 and 5, I was astounded by their capabilities at such a young age.
With my own creative writing programme – based on my experiences and many visits to Mexico City – I thoroughly enjoyed the day, and look forward to more in the future. A quick author visit is fine, but there is something so rewarding about working with the same group all day. Witnessing how the seed of an idea can develop into a well written, well presented portfolio of work which can be showcased at school at the end of the day, is most satisfying.
Meanwhile, I’m looking forward to reading some of those stories for the 2018 #inspiringcostakids competition.
Stay creative and have a nice day.
Chat soon.
Anna
