WHAT I DO
by Pete Johnson

One of the best things about being a writer for children is being invited to so many brilliant schools and libraries. It really has been one of the highlights of my career.

It’s especially cheering when schools say my visit ‘got  pupils buzzing about reading,’ and ‘inspired pupils with their own writing.’

I’M BEST KNOWN FOR . . .
Lively, interactive talks, celebrating the fun and excitement of reading. Schools often say they want me to highlight reading for pleasure, in particular.

MY TALKS
Audience Years 3-8 inclusive.  The only equipment I need is a large table (Yes hooray, they are screen free) I have been described as an ‘interactive story-teller.’ I also show how I gain and develop ideas. This is followed by a question and answer session and a books signing. 

WORKSHOP
I also offer an interactive workshop on building and developing a story. using ‘THE GHOST DOG,’ looking at how a story works (protagonist, antagonist etc) or as one student asked. ‘How on earth do you make your stories last so long.’

THERE’S MORE
I have been lucky enough to be invited to festivals, conferences, reading groups (a number of these recently) as well as school events for both parents and children) ‘(‘How to Train Your Parents’ is of great interest to parents as well as children.)

FINALLY
My aim is for my talks to be as much fun as possible but also inspire my  audience to see reading and writing in a whole new light. Books are for everyone!

WHAT READING MEANS TO ME

‘The joys of becoming totally lost in a book have transformed my life. Books have given me comfort and confidence. They are a wonderful way of taking a break from real life – and yet also help you make sense of it. I am really excited that so many schools are creating a culture of reading. Of course I am extremely keen to support this in any way I can.’
Pete Johnson

Pete can be contacted at:

SOME RECENT FEEDBACK . . .

"It was thought to be the very best visit of any author to the school."
Dorothy Buck, Teacher/Librarian, Elmwood School, East Croydon.

"Pete’s visit was a roaring success."
Ingrid Ludgrove, Richard Hale School, Hertford.

"Some boys who never read reputedly cannot put your books down! Fantastic."
Gill Spears, Librarian, Bushey Hall School.

"After you left, the school was buzzing with excitement from your visit. I have been inundated with lovely comments from pupils saying how much they enjoyed your sessions and how they are desperate to read as many of your books as they can."
Perins School, Hampshire

"An inspirational visit. Thank you."
Burton Advantage Schools

"Your visit was a resounding success."
Hampton Community College, Hampton

"The feedback I have had has been extremely positive and a number of children have mentioned how keen they are to get down to some story writing. You have certainly inspired them."
Berkhamsted Collegiate School, Herts

[more on school and library visits . . .]

PETE TALKS TO PUPILS FROM TWENTY SCHOOLS

‘Pete held pupils from 20 local schools spellbound in a brilliantly organised event at Ruddock Hall at King Edward’s School, Birmingham.’

It was just one of the highlights in Pete’s busiest year ever.

Pete is based in Hertfordshire but travels all over the country. His lively, interactive talks have earned special praise. He also offers Creative Writing Workshops – including much-requested Ghost Story telling workshops. Pete works with both primary and secondary school pupils.

THE TWO HOUR BOOK-SIGNING FOLLOWING THE LAUNCH FOR ‘MY PARENTS ARE
OUT OF CONTROL,’ AT THE CRUCIBLE THEATRE, SHEFFIELD.

READING FOR PLEASURE – AND ME

 to read Pete’s latest blog.