Visiting Author

Morris Gleitzman

Last week, the Creative writing and Media Studies class had the pleasure of listening to the wise words of an expert. The famous author, Morris Gleitzman shared his wisdom to the eager ears of Years 9 and 10 students, as well as some Year 7 students who are studying one of his texts. Explaining the meaning behind stories, why we write them, read them and enjoy them, inspiration was ignited in the minds of this creative group. The best place to start is at the beginning, and hence, was where Morris began, with the very first sentence. He explained its importance and the power it possesses to either grip and reel, or lousily push aside. It can reveal valuable detail and introduces the audience to a character that they will be spending a lot of time with. It's therefore critical to do the first sentence justice and make each and every word count. Morris claims the role of this first sentence is to get the audience to read the second one and so, must give “a clue about the most important thing in the character’s life.” He talked about making a connection with the character to learn about them and pry deep secrets from their past to bleed into the story.

“Creative energy wedged in the pages of books,” is how Gleitzman describes stories and there is something quite remarkable and magical about this description. He also discussed the importance of a problem. It’s the problems, after all, that make us stronger, more rounded human beings. Although it would be thought that stories are an escape from problems, Morris explained that without this vital ingredient, we would have no story in the first place. How can we enjoy a story with no problem? for nothing would actually happen and further more, there would be no suggestions as to how we can solve our own problems. From this revelation, Morris quotes, “In stories, problems are our friends.”

His advice, experience and learnings were all delivered through the time he took to talk. Hearing from a successful author, was something of great value to the blossoming writers in our school community. Answering enthusiastic questions and connecting with the girls, Morris Gleitzman made quite the impression on how to start writing, even at a young age. Sharing how he got into writing through screen writing, the girls were taught to follow where the heart lies and encouraged to accept new challenges. Such an incredible experience is one that will stick and we hope to hear the stories of this inspired group of girls soon. We thank Miss Gray and Mrs Matthews for giving us this special opportunity.

Rose Goward

Year 10 - Loreto 2