Award-winning author Cressida Cowell virtually visits Scarborough pupils on World Book Day

Children from Braeburn Primary and Nursery Academy, Filey Junior School, Hertford Vale C of E Primary School and Wheatcroft Community Primary School were virtually visited by Waterstones Children’s Laureate and author Cressida Cowell as part of Connecting Stories.

Connecting Stories is a new initiative delivered by the National Literacy Trust, for which Cressida Cowell is an ambassador.

Led by Our Stories: Whitby, Scarborough and Filey from the National Literacy Trust, the Arts Council England funded project aims to increase children and young people’s access to literary experiences and books.

In the live-stream event, Cressida delighted children with information on her book writing process and gave tips on becoming an author and illustrator.

Children were also engaged with an exciting Q&A session, where Cressida shared her World Book Day wish that “all children could have access to books and libraries like sweetie shops” and read as many books as possible.

She encouraged children to “write for the joy of it” and to take part in the Connecting Stories creative writing competition.

Children age seven to 11 are invited to take part in the competition, with the theme ‘Everyday Heroes’ - the deadline for entries is March 12.

Cressida - author and illustrator of the best-selling How to Train Your Dragon books series - said: “I am delighted to be supporting the Connecting Stories initiative.

"As an ambassador for the National Literacy Trust, I know the importance of their work and the positive effect it has on the children most in need of support with literacy skills.

"It's really exciting to be able to connect with children from many different communities all at once, and to inspire them to be creative and share their stories.”

Connecting Stories is a calendar full of exciting and engaging events, including a competition for children in 14 local areas, each with their own theme.

Click here for find out more information.

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