Author’s magic inspires

Pilbara students of all ages were enthralled by the fast-talking and humorous Australian author Barry Jonsberg in a series of creative workshops last week.

In partnership with BHP Billiton, The Literature Centre had an exciting touring week with students from Hedland Senior High School, the Graham Farmer Follow The Dream Program and Newman Senior High School as award-winning author Jonsberg travelled through West Australian regional towns.

Touring with director of TLC Lesley Reece, the duo have left rave reviews in their wake.

“I’ve been very impressed so far by the writing produced under Barry’s guidance ... Barry breaks up the serious business of creative writing with readings from his books and sharing book trailers promoting them,” Ms Reece said.

“Students are often amazed at just how many drafts these award-winning authors have to do to get their stories published. Many leave these workshops prepared for the first time to really edit their work.”

Born in England and moving to Australia in 1999, Jonsberg lives in Darwin, where he has written 13 novels including the recently published Games Theory, his Pandora Jones trilogy, and My Life as an Alphabet.

Two Hedland primary schools also had the chance to experience a series of tailored picture book workshops featuring travelling exhibitions of original artwork from children’s books Ned Kelly and the Green Sash and Leo the Littlest Seahorse.

TLC education officer Beck Blaxell presented the workshops at Cassia Primary School and St Cecilia’s Catholic Primary School.

“I think for the students here in the Pilbara they are really fascinated to view exhibitions of picture book artwork, to see how preliminary drawings progress to the final illustration stage and to consider a story in pictures before they hear the words,” she said.