I enjoyed a lovely day at Marston Vale Forest Centre, storytelling and answering questions about my books. All the children I met came across as enthusiastic readers and were more than happy to participate in the ‘find the ...’ activities and also have a go at speaking like Captain Sillyvoice. The one thing I hadn't expected was that some of the children would want to read the stories out loud to the other children. At least six children (aged from 5 – 10 years) took turns at reading a story. I think the novelty of being able to sit at a computer connected to a projector and large screen, rather like a teacher, was the main appeal. Fortunately my books vary in length and complexity and there was something suitable for each child’s reading ability. I was so impressed with how patiently and attentively the children sat and listened to each other. They worked their way through most of my book collection.

It was fun being able to sit with the audience, and interesting to be able to view the storytelling through the eyes of the other children.  One thing is for sure, children love to have things to look for within the illustrations, and they don’t take in any of the story until they’ve found what they are looking for! I now know that it is always best to get that out of the way first, then begin reading the text! Secondly, children notice different things to adults and sometimes laugh at different times too. For example, the children thought that the spider in ‘The Day My Teacher Came to Tea’ was very funny and wanted to see what his expression was or what he was doing on each page. I think the adults focus more on the storyline, for example in this story, the trouble the boy is getting himself into trying to repair the piece of cake. Of course, once one child starts giggling then others usually follow!

My books are still available to buy in the Forest Centre gift shop, and it looks like I will be back there again in August.

Thank you to Sam Hayden for organising the event and to Sue Harrison, who provided assistance with setting up the room on the day.

I am officially an award winning author, with a finalist medal winner logo to prove it! This award was judged by children, teachers and parents from across 8 primary schools. The feedback received has been lovely to read. Here are a few snippets.

Readers’ Comments

‘I loved the fact it was narrated in verse, always the best in a young children’s book.’ Parent

‘A funny book, not too long, well illustrated.’ Teacher 

‘This book is not too difficult and the idea of a naughty pen is appealing to children and adults. It’s amusing too.' Parent 

‘The pen’s silly but funny.’ Girl, aged 3.5

Stats

Of the 28 readers, all 28 would like to read another book by this author. 

9 thought the pen was the best. 16 thought the rhyming text was the best.

One-line quote to sum up all the feedback

‘My Crazy Purple Pen is a fun-filled story. Perfect for young children.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards

Star Rating

5 stars