Visiting schools as a practising author, illustrator and publisher is an opportunity to share my experience and enthusiasm with children

and teachers.

Each visit looks at the process of writing, illustrating, and producing a picture book. I show the children rough drawings and artworks, and then run a workshop with them to produce their own illustrated picture book.

I can provide the children with their own blank 16 page,

with cover, picture book

After introducing myself I then talk about Rupert Bear - this iconic character, his history and my involvement.

I show the children original art, talk about the unique Rupert Bear annuals, and explain how he’s illustrated. I talk about other characters I’ve illustrated, such as Postman Pat, Wallace and Gromit, Kipper,

Noddy and Winnie the Pooh, and show examples

of artwork and printed books.

The talk then moves onto picture books in general.

I show the children the many forms of children’s picture books - board books, flap books, pop-up books, several of which they will recognise.

I talk about being an illustrator and explain how a picture book comes about, showing original artwork and drawings in progress.

Next I explain the roles of the writer, illustrator, designer and publisher, and how all these contribute to the production of a finished picture book. I read several stories, and explain the use of repetition, alliteration, and using sounds.

We discuss ideas and imagination, and where it comes from.

At this point the children can ask questions. This is followed by group brainstorming to generate illustration / story ideas and get the children thinking about their own picture book.

I encourage them to work out their ideas in their sketchbooks,

and to ‘just draw’ or write anything to get their ideas onto paper.

I do drawings on the board to demonstrate handy tips to help and hopefully inspire. I then walk around the classroom and talk to each

child individually about their thoughts and ideas,

helping if they’re stuck.

Any day is perfect for a picture book day, but my visits can also bring

a focus to events throughout the year – Book Weeks,

World Book Day, The Big Draw etc.