Author Inspires Young Readers at Old Swinford Hospital

Published on isbi School News dated Wednesday 22nd of May 2013

Simon Mayo visited Old Swinford Hospital in May to discuss his latest book with pupils from Years 7, 8 and 9. He also found time to talk to older students who are interested in pursing a career in the media, literature and writing.

The BBC Radio 2 and 5 live presenter has just released his second children's novel - Itch Rocks - an eagerly anticipated follow-up to the award-winning Itch.

Itch Rocks tells the story of boy science hero Itch whose hobby of collecting all the elements from the periodic table lands him in all sorts of bother. Whilst hunting for the mysterious scientific element 126 he tries to save the world from unscrupulous scientists and international terrorists.

Head of English Joe Jackson said 'What a wonderful presentation to students (and Staff!). Simon was truly engaging, interesting and really informative particularly in the way he used typical school student experiences, personal experience and research to demonstrate how he has created a cracking work of fiction for young readers.

'The way in which he used Science as inspiration and background for creative writing in particular was fascinating.'

'Wonderfully inspiring and motivating for our young readers and writers at Old Swinford Hospital' he concluded.