Type of Artist:
I usually offer author talks, which incorporate readings and Q&A sessions. I occasionally run workshops upon request.
If you’re already familiar with my work, you’ll know that my books are very silly, very surreal and very playful. Underneath the surface, however, I’m incredibly serious about reading and writing, and my events are a reflection of this. My talks are energetic, engaging and interactive, full of jokes, props, silly voices and horrible, horrible singing. At the same time, I’m careful to smuggle some inspirational and serious stuff in there too and I aim to light a fire of enthusiasm beneath even the most reluctant reader. I love to improvise and work with audiences and to turn each event into a unique and special experience for all concerned. I’ve been doing this for around fifteen years now, and have performed at hundreds of schools and festivals in the UK and beyond.
My author talks generally work best with 7 to 10 year olds.
For workshops, ages 7 to 11 is ideal.
I also offer picture book events for younger readers of around 4 to 6 years old.
Very happy to talk to large or small audiences. Maximum is probably around 400 in any one session, though sometimes it’s preferable to split such a large group into two smaller sessions. For workshops, around 30 – 40 children is probably the maximum.
My maximum is usually 3 author talks/workshops plus signing(s) in a day.
Author events: 60 minutes including Q&A, plus time for signing afterwards.
Workshops: open to discussion based on your requirements.
Picture book events: 45 minutes including Q&A tends to work best.
Anywhere
Trains, taxis
No
No
You’re a Bad Man, Mr Gum!
Mr Gum and the Biscuit Billionaire
Natboff – One Million Years of Stupidity
Danny McGee Drinks The Sea
Going to the Volcano
“The best author visit we’ve ever had! The children were still buzzing about it for more than a week afterwards.”
“The children were captivated and in hysterics. Andy was very generous with his time and spent longer than timetabled signing books and talking individually with each child.”
“What an amazing event! Andy’s performance was simply captivating and this will certainly be an experience which children will remember.”
Teacher/Librarian comments from Authors Aloud tour, 2018
“The children are still talking about the sessions now and they are recalling all of their favourite moments. Trying to get all children to love reading is something we truly believe in at [name of school] and your passion for literature and entertaining people was so infectious, I have no doubt that the sessions will have a positive impact for a long time to come.”
Teacher feedback, Zoom virtual events, 2021
“I just wanted to say thank you so so much for coming to Rome, Andy. I have heard from so many children that that was their best day of school, ever. The teachers loved it too. I haven’t seen or heard so much laughter for a long time. The workshop was inspired and inspiring… All the children went away really excited about writing their stories and I have had so many emails from parents expressing how their kids have not shut up all night about Andy!”
Organiser feedback, 2017