Heroes of the Valley author visits Doncaster

On Monday 19th January, well-known author Jonathan Stroud came to The Armthorpe School to talk about his work, and in particular his latest novel Heroes of the Valley.

Jonathan is probably best known for the Bartimaeus trilogy of novels, the first of which is the best-selling Amulet of Samarkand. The new book is a bit of a departure, and is, he said, very loosely based on the old Norse sagas, with a hero, a quest and monsters all featuring heavily.

From the outset, Jonathan involved his audience in his presentation, asking them for their ideas and input. He also showed what a very talented illustrator he is. As the students shouted out how they thought the character might look, he cleverly incorporated their ideas into pictures, Rolf Harris-style. The result was very impressive, and he made it look deceptively simple!

Jonathan also talked about the process of designing a cover, and how important that might be in encouraging people to pick up the book and want to read it. We discussed the finished design and the elements that made it work, as well as looking at posters of the designs chosen for the American and German markets. Fortunately, all agreed that the British design was by far the best!

In the question and answer session, Jonathan answered lots of questions about his work and writing career. He had brought along an old exercise book showing his first effort at producing a book, saying that it was never too soon to start! He was very inspiring to any members of his audience who might have writing ambitions, encouraging them to keep writing and refining their technique. He also said they should not be put off by rejection as he had had to try several publishers before his first book was accepted.

Jonathan was extremely interesting, approachable and funny, and the young people present (as well as us oldies!) thoroughly enjoyed their morning with him. The DBA committee would like to thank him for coming to Doncaster and wish him every success with his book.

Lyn Hopson

Secretary DBA

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