Details
My name is Simon Murray. I am an author and illustrator of fiction for children.
Following a successful four years illustrating the best selling Mokee Joe series for Hodder Children’s Books, I have now released my own children’s picture book entitled Icky Doo Dah. Icky is a mischievous and fun loving creature who loves to cause chaos and havoc!
I have been visiting schools for over 5 years. In the last school year over 18,000 primary school children took part in my workshops across the UK. I visit around three primary schools per week. During my visit, which usually lasts for the full school day, I actively promote the link between illustration and writing through lively fun-packed workshops.
My visits usually start with a 45 minute talk in front of the whole school. This talk involves live-drawing, poetry, and the imaginative origins of my character Icky Doo Dah!
This is followed by short energetic workshops with each class where the children create some illustrations or storyboards of their own, as well as helping me produce a unique A1 illustration of Icky Doo Dah to leave as a gift for the class. The most impressive illustrations in the school are put on my website www.ickydoodah.com for all to see!
I have received very positive feedback from Literacy Co-ordinators, Art teachers and Headteachers. This feedback has highlighted that beyond the pure enjoyment of an exciting, high-energy day of literacy and art activities, there are many other positive aspects to my visit. These include:
· Improvements in the children's group participation and interaction.
· Developing and bringing out the children's style and imagination in their artwork.
· Developing a deeper understanding of the important link between writing and illustration.
· Capturing the imagination of even the 'reluctant reader'. Helping children who lack confidence in a formal class setting. ·
Many teachers have commented that my age ( I am only 30 ) helps the children relate to the subject more, and shows children that reading, writing and illustrating can be "cool".
· My visits often lead to class projects and impressive displays, which brighten up the whole school!
If you would be interested in booking a visit for your school please contact my booking agent Rachel Huggett (details above), who can give you any further information you require and arrange a suitable date for my visit.
