Doncaster: Discover the Spirit

Kate le Vann

On Friday, 29th February, the library at North Doncaster Technology College (NDTC) hosted students from Hungerhill, Hall Cross, Armthorpe and Don Valley for an author talk by popular teen fiction writer, Kate Le Vann.  Kate’s latest book Two Friends, One Summer was on this year's DBA long list.

Kate is an ex-pupil and some of her old teachers popped in during the morning to see her.

This was the first time Kate had done an author talk, but any initial nerves soon vanished.  She has a very self-deprecating manner, and played down the success she has had in terms of her novels, and her work in journalism. She had spent some time working as a freelance journalist for several magazines. She described how she had begun to write, and spoke about her books, including her new novel Rain, which is due out in June.  She also spoke about the way books for young people have changed since she was at school, and the amount of good material now available.

The girls in the audience were really interested in Kate’s talk, and asked lots of questions about her work, which really appeals to teenage girls in particular. She then signed autographs for everyone there.

It was a really enjoyable morning and we are all looking forward to seeing Kate again soon.

Some student comments:

Sophie, Year 9H : “I really enjoyed this trip because she told us about herself and gave us a lot of time to ask her about herself.  She was funny too”

Hannah, Year 9G: “Kate seemed quite shy and jumpy but she was good as this was her first time public speaking”

Fiona, Year 9G:  “To say this was her first time, she was quite shy and nervous, but she was funny and gave younger writers, like me, some information”

Samantha, Year 9G: “Although she was really shy the day was really enjoyable”  

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