John Dougherty - Author, Poet, Songwriter

John is an up-and-coming author whose first three books have all been shortlisted for major awards. His stories are funny and fast-moving, rather like his school visits. He’s also a published poet, and a singer and songwriter who has appeared on radio and television as well as at several well-known venues and festivals including the National Theatre’s Watch This Space.

Publications include...

Zeus on the Loose (Young Corgi, 2004), shortlisted for the Branford Boase award

Niteracy Hour (Young Corgi, 2005), shortlisted for the Nottingham Children's Book award

Jack Slater, Monster Investigator (Young Corgi, 2006), shortlisted for the Ottakar's Children's Book Prize

Zeus to the Rescue (Young Corgi, forthcoming in 2007)

As a former primary school teacher of 11 years’ experience, John’s happy to work with any age-group from Nursery to Year 6, and prefers where possible to meet every class in the school during his day.

He’s passionate about promoting reading for enjoyment, and aims during his visit to enthuse the children about reading and writing. His sessions typically involve an interactive Q&A session interwoven with readings, poetry and songs. Alternatively, he offers creative writing workshops (no more than 3 in a day, and more usually 2) with single classes; these aim to spark ideas for stories and help the children discover their own creativity. If appropriate, he’ll include a short whole-school assembly as part of the day. He’s also available for festivals and library events.

Responses to John’s visits to schools:

'A natural entertainer, with a guitar-strumming comedy routine that would go down well on kids' TV'

Stroud News and Journal

'It's not easy to hold the attention of our children but John managed it magnificently. The children are absolutely delighted to know a real, live author. They've enjoyed his books enormously'

Bev Cheal, Deputy Head, Amberley Ridge Special School, Glos

'We've had such good feedback about your visit to the school. The children have been talking about you and many year sixes have continued on their writing tasks voluntarily- in their lunch hour!!!! The children were really given a boost - their interest in the art of writing, being economical with words and ultimately grabbing the reader, as well the pure pleasure of reading AND being read to, has increased ten-fold. Thank you - your visit was everything we hoped for and needed during our Book Week!'

Natasha Jones, Literacy Co-ordinator, Churchdown Village Junior School, Glos

'The children and staff had a lovely day. They thought you were absolutely great and they have definitely been inspired to write!'

Debra Tomlinson, Headteacher, Avebury Primary School, Wilts

Comments from Children:

'I really enjoyed your poems, and I think Zeus on the Loose is brilliant.'

'I think you are probably my favourite author. Your songs are fab and your poems are really funny.'

'I wish you were here all week.'

'I love your stories and songs, they’re amazing.'

'My friends and me especially liked the poems. I got a lot out of the hour in the hall.'

'My favourite bit was the singing!'

 

Booking Information

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