Performing in Primary Schools

So I've visited about 20 local primary schools over the last month and performed my story to the staff and children. There have been highs and lows...

I uploaded my book to PowerPoint, complete with the sound of a big dog woofing at the beginning - that's Chloe having her say, after all, she is the star of the story. At most schools we are able to use an HDMI lead to link with their big screen - in a couple of schools we failed and I had to read allowed from the actual book itself, like in the old days!

What a wonderful modern innovation the big screen is for classrooms. I love seeing my book projected so big, and it means my hands are free so I can walk about, gesticulating - acting out the words so the kids can definitely keep up, particularly the really little ones.

I talk about mining; dangerous gases; the need for a miner's safety lamp... Then I read the story, which they all love, and have a Q&A session. The kids ask the most amazing questions - there are always ones abut science, becoming an author and inspiration - it's very stimulating. Sometimes the teachers are really enthusiastic, and that definitely increases the sense of excitement and possibility.

My Alexander Technique training comes in handy for voice projection etc - especially when I have a cough, or there are a few kids being noisy. Altogether it's a lot of fun.