A U T U M N 2 0 1 5 / H appenings
Young Samurai Author Wields Words Visiting author inspires and entertains Chris Bradford, author of the Young Samurai and Bodyguard series, visited DC in early October. Chris has written 18 fiction books, been published in more than 20 languages and been nominated for over 30 book awards. Chris’s impressive honours include the 2011 Northern Ireland Book Awards and the 2014 Brilliant Book Award. His book Bodyguard: Hostage was long listed last year for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and Young Samurai: The Way of the Warrior, is considered one of Puffin’s top 70 books alongside Treasure Island and Robin Hood. Students in Years 5, 6, 7 and 8 were treated to fantastic performances from the awardwinning author while Year 4 students participated in a lively question and answer session. Students loved the action-packed book readings and in particular the Samurai sword display. Students also thoroughly enjoyed the interactive nature of this author visit with many students participating in on-the-spot contests. Following each
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presentation, students engaged in a question and answer session followed by a book signing and photographs. Chris is a method writer and he spoke to the students about this process, discussing his training in samurai swordsmanship, karate, ninjutsu and Zen Kyu Shin Taijutsu. he also explained that for his Bodyguard series, he underwent training to become a qualified professional bodyguard. He enhanced his talk with several entertaining video clips. Book sales were high after the event, which demonstrated the popularity of this author. Students from both primary and secondary really enjoyed the visit and Young Samurai books can be seen in the hands of many readers in the library. We are delighted to have had the opportunity to have this major author in our school. Maura Corcoran and Leanne Sercombe Librarians