Author conducts bus writing workshop

CHILDREN in Aberdeen were encouraged to take a leaf out of an award-winning author’s book yesterday and put pen to paper in a scheme aimed at promoting reading and writing.

The city’s Reading Bus – designed to promote literature as a source of lifelong pleasure – pitched up at Kittybrewster School where John Fardell hosted a workshop for pupils. Mr Fardell’s latest book, Manfred the Baddie, won the early years (up to nine years old) category at the Royal Mail Awards for Scottish Children’s Books ceremony on Tuesday.

After his visit to Kittybrewster in the morning, Mr Fardell, who stays in Edinburgh, spent the afternoon at St Peter’s RC School in Dunbar Street.

He said: “My author visit events are fun, interactive sessions, which are as much about the scribbly processes behind writing and illustrating books as about the finished product, with opportunities for everyone to participate in some inventing and story-generating activities.

“I encourage the children to always write about or draw what excites them personally, and to never worry about having to get a story or picture right first time.”

Jenny Watson, co-ordinator of the Reading Bus scheme, said: “The workshops with John were a great success and the children from both schools really got involved. The scheme will continue to promote reading by bringing more of the country’s leading children’s authors to Aberdeen.”