Year 7 students at Great Sankey High School were treated to a truly magical and inspiring visit from award-winning author Sophie Anderson. Her passion for storytelling and folk tales captivated the audience as she shared the origins of her enchanting narratives, drawing inspiration from her own family heritage.

 

Students were enthralled as Sophie discussed her creative process, with one remarking, “It was wonderful meeting a real author.” Her storytelling expertise brought a sense of excitement to the workshops, where students were encouraged to let their imaginations soar.

 

After Easter, students will begin studying The House with Chicken Legs, one of Sophie’s most celebrated novels. As part of the workshops, they were invited to envision their own fantastical house and imagine where it might take them. Their imaginative creations will be judged, with the winners receiving a signed copy of Sophie’s book—a thrilling incentive that added an extra layer of excitement to the day.

 

In addition to crafting their own magical houses, students explored 'String Poems'—a simple yet effective poetry method that allows everyone to create with ease. One student commented, “I love this style of writing because it’s simple and unique.” Another shared, “It was inspirational and fun!” Sophie’s expert guidance and encouragement helped students unlock their creative potential, leaving them with a newfound enthusiasm for writing.

 

The opportunity to purchase signed books, along with the chance to win them as prizes, ensured that Sophie’s visit left a lasting impression. Many students left the event feeling more confident in their storytelling abilities and eager to put pen to paper.

 

Events like these not only foster a love of literature but also empower young minds to embrace the magic of storytelling. Sophie Anderson’s visit has certainly ignited a spark of creativity that will continue to burn brightly as students embark on their own literary journeys.

 

Sophie Anderson2