Children assist author with her new publication

Children from Heap Bridge and St Luke’s Primary Schools, Heywood

Children from Heywood schools assisted an author shape the way her new book will be published.

The schools involved were Heap Bridge and St Luke’s Primary Schools in Heywood along with Sedgley Park and St Luke’s Primary Schools in Bury.

Yvonne Weatherhead MBE is the author of all the previous three Starfly children’s books, which chronicle the antics and many adventures of a young ’detective’ sheepdog with his brothers and sisters on Bluebell Farm.

Her new book, ‘Starfly seeks the red fox’, follows the daring adventures of Starfly with his family and other animal friends, stalking a red fox prowler, however there are many exciting twists to the tale.

Ms Weatherhead said: “I decided to bring together a group of children from Year 5, who I have been involved with in my Starfly workshops. They have already proved to me they are amazing readers; innovative writers and they have been involved in exemplary courtroom drama scenes as part of studying the Starfly series of books.

“The day was filled with challenge, excitement and a real focus on improving my draft book. As a result of their comments, changes have been made to the text. It was a great way to utilise pupil voice and their opinions with superb outcomes. I could not thank them enough, they were stars.”

Andy Chubb, the illustrator of the book, shared with the children how he had become an artist. He showed them the illustrations for the new book, collecting their opinions for the front cover. They were also taught how to draw a ‘step by step’ sheepdog with fantastic results.

Kim Farrall, headteacher of St Luke’s Heywood, said: “The children thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working with an author and illustrator. They are now transferring their editing skills back into the classroom. Additionally, it has inspired the children to write their own books.

“We are looking forward to the next book release and to take part in further workshops."