On Friday 9th March, children’s author John Dougherty came to visit Redwell as an exciting treat for the end of our special story telling weeks. He entertained, enthused and inspired the children and teachers in each of the four fantastic assemblies he put on for the children. With each key stage, Mr Dougherty spoke to the children about where he gets his inspiration for his books and how he became an author. He also read extracts from his books, allowed lots of time for the children to ask him questions and even got his guitar out and demonstrated, in the most entertaining way possible, that authors don’t just have to write books! All of the children had a fantastic time learning more about how to become an author and what makes a good piece of writing, but most of all, they went away feeling inspired.

We were very lucky at the end of the day too, when Mr Dougherty held a book sale and signing event in our very own library. Lots of children and their parents were able to buy one of his many books as well as meet him personally to have their book signed.

“I really liked his comedy books because they made me laugh and I love making people laugh too.” Kyan Y2

“I liked his songs about Stinkbomb and Ketchup Face because they were really funny!” Emily Y2

“I really liked it when he told us that he gets his ideas from his children” Katie Y3

“He was really funny and he inspired me to write stories.” James Y3