Malcolm Duffy
Type of Artist:
Talk, reading, creative writing session.
Using a power-point presentation my talks involve a brief description of how I came to be a writer, followed by – the story behind the story. How and why I came to write this particular book.
I discuss the insights, research, and techniques that I use to create a compelling story.
I follow this with a reading from the book (usually the first chapter).
If time allows, I sometimes give my key tips for creative writing.
I end with a Q&A (usually lasting about 10 minutes).
My presentations are flexible, depending on the time allowed.
Details
Preferred age range:11-18.
Maximum number in any one session:
Creative workshops usually include up to 30 pupils. There is no maximum number for the talks. I’ve spoken to over 500 pupils before!
No of sessions per day:
Happy to do as many sessions as required.
Session Length:
The talks and creative writing sessions are usually between 45-60 mins.
It’s also good to have to some time allocated for book signing.
Areas prepared to travel to:
Happy to travel anywhere in the UK providing expenses are covered. I’m from Newcastle, so I like to visit schools in the North East. I stay with my brother, so there would be no overnight costs.
Transport:
Car. 45p per mile.
Fees:
DBS/CRB:
No
Hold PLI (public liability insurance):
No
Website:
Twitter:
@malcolmduffyUK
Titles include:
Me Mam. Me Dad. Me.
Sofa Surfer.
Read Between the Lies.
Seven Million Sunflowers.
Testimonials:
"I’ve worked with Malcolm for four years and have only positive feedback. As a Geordie in Surrey he is a rare gem and a breath of fresh air in a London independent school. Few pupils have heard the accent before and enjoy being transported through his stories to the North-East. Malcolm is always well prepared, quick to respond to communication and attuned to the secondary school environment. His talks are entertaining, engaging and thought-provoking; not least because his writing tackles contemporary difficult issues – homelessness, domestic violence, war – in what feels like an authentic way, based on Malcolm’s personal witness. It is clear that he knows his stuff and has compelling back stories behind his books which add to the authenticity – critical for winning over sceptical teenagers.
As a screenwriter and author he is able to draw on varied material and talk in more general terms about narrative and story-telling meaning that he appeals not just to the keen readers and writers, but anyone with an interest in storytelling from feature films to advertising. I particularly appreciate how he takes time to find out about the school community he is visiting and engage on an individual level with pupils and staff. In a world where young people are desperate to be seen and valued for who they are and respected for whatever their truth is, this really really matters."
Helen Cleaves, Librarian Ibstock Place School
Whole Year Group Assembly.
"It was a pleasure to host Malcolm Duffy this morning! Year 8 were treated to a talk with their 'favourite author' as they enjoyed hearing the story behind the author and Malcolm came up with the ideas for his stories."
Creative Writing.
"A group of thirty keen writers were given an hour-long creative writing masterclass this morning. They loved thinking creatively and putting their writing skills to use designing their own opening lines."
"Thanks again for coming into school. We can't wait to have you back."
David McLaughlin. English Teacher. Walker Riverside Academy
"The stimulating and topical themes of Malcolm’s novels are made accessible to all through his personable and engaging talk. Each time he has visited us has been a huge success!"
Joseph Humphreys, Librarian, Surbiton High School
Other information:
One of my books, Read Between the Lies, is about dyslexia. The idea for the book came about from a film I wrote called Mical. The film tells the true story of Pat and Mike Jones, who went on to create Nessy, the world’s biggest online platform for dyslexics. Mical is 20 minutes long, and I’d be happy to share the film, and talk about it in relation to the book.