Type of Artist:
Highly interactive talks and presentations based on the Me and Mister P books, including readings and an exploration of the writing process from initial idea through to final published book. Happy to work with individual classes, year groups or whole-school assemblies. Writing workshops for smaller groups (generally one class at a time). Bespoke workshops always considered.
For talk, ideally 7 - 10 year olds (with definite lee-way either side!). Writing workshops ideally 9 - 11 year olds.
Up to 250 for talk and preferably no more than 30 for workshop.
Depending on configuration of talks and workshops, no more than 4 in day (2 in morning, 2 in afternoon).
Talk: 60 minutes (including questions)
Workshop: 45 - 60 minutes or extended (or can work to fit in with school day).
Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria and Greater Manchester. London, South and South-West.
Will happily consider other invitations if travel and overnight expenses are met.
Due to travelling with polar bear and his luggage, I usually travel by car. Travel charged at 40p per mile (which I usually try to cap at normal train fare price if cheaper).
Yes, have PLI and current DBS on its way.
Me and Mister P
Me and Mister P - Ruby’s Star
Me and Mr P - Joe's New World (publ Feb 2019)
"The whole morning was a huge success, due in no small part to Maria’s ability to relate to all the children and apppeal in different ways to a range of abilities within the groups."
- Sandroyd and Sixpenny Handley Schools, Dorset
"Maria went above and beyond. She was engaging, friendly, enthusiastic and inspiring. The children loved hearing extracts, getting involved with the props (which brought her characters and story to life) and asking questions about life as an author. They were all entranced by the story and many enjoyed reading it fully in the following weeks."
- St Gilda’s Haringey
"The children enjoyed the visit, they said it was “inspiring and fun” and they really liked having a 'real' author in the school."
- Milborne Port Primary, Dorset
"Today the children in Year 5 and 6 have been sharing the stories they wrote last night after your workshop. They were full of enthusiasm and keen to read them to each other. It was wonderful. Thanks again for being such an inspiration."
- Dolphinholme School, Lancashire
"We had such a lovely day with Maria - the schools really loved her events and we’ve had brilliant feedback."
- Simply Books, Stockport
I generally arrive with a full-size polar bear (cut-out!) along with his suitcase full of props, allowing me which to focus on some environmental and factual issues alongside creative fiction. I need to allow a little extra time for set-up.