International Bestselling Author Visits Yarm School

Published on isbi School News dated Friday 14th of April 2023

Yarm School was delighted to welcome A.F. Steadman, author of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief, who was in the region to discuss her latest book with local pupils.

Steadman was thrilled to be able to meet the readers of her latest book which is centred around the world of Skandar Smith and the fantasy world that he inhabits, which includes ‘ferocious unicorns’.

Speaking to the pupils from schools across the region in the Princess Alexandra Auditorium, she outlined her inspiration behind her epic adventure and explained to them that they too can invent their fantastical world: “I really enjoy doing talks like this because it is just so brilliant to meet your readers.

“It gets them really excited about reading and often gets them excited about writing their own stories too.”

Also speaking at the event was Richard Drake, local business owner of Drake The Bookshop: “The kids had an absolute blast!

“It is massively important in Teesside to get as many kids as possible excited about reading.

“Also, the chance to meet an author and to get their books signed by them. Reading for pleasure is such an important part of the curriculum.”

Dr Huw Williams, Headmaster at Yarm School said: “It was lovely to welcome over 700 school children from across the region to hear A.F. Steadman talk about her exciting fantasy world.

“It was so exciting for the children and a privilege for us all to have an international bestselling author provide a window into her creative process. She helped the pupils delve into the world of storytelling and enticed them into writing their own stories. It was a pleasure to host the author event organised by Drake the Bookshop which inspired children from 15 local schools.”