week 2

   Simon Higgons the author of 'The Island of the White Spear' came to Thomas Carr especially for the boys today. He presented in a Japanese fighting costume with a large Samurai Sword. He introduced himself and proceeded to embark upon his story and how he became a writer among many other traits.

Simon Introduces himself in full costume.

Simon performs in full costume for the boys. 

To take a photo was extremely hard. The room was so quiet the small click of the camera sounded like a door slamming.

Simon's talk was so engrossing and enthralling at times he bought tears to my eyes.

  Simon was once a Murder investigator and a Private Investigator. He was beaten down by the unnecessary violence and crime, he gave it away and travelled to Japan to study Judisu. His journey and experiences were conveyed to the boys and teachers in such heart felt passion that no-one stirred nor took their eyes from Simon. He proceeded to enlighten us with a small demonstration of the sword. After doing this he explained that the Japanese were gentle people of wisdom and valued being educated. To be taught was a privilege that was greatly sought in Japan. Age is no barrier.

 The boys with their books 'The Island of the White Spear' By Simon Higgons.

The boys creating the shell of their story while Simon reads out one sentence at a time.

   The students were thoroughly engaged, Simon had them hooked. After the get to know you session Simon moved on with his PowerPoint 'How to create a story'. The workshop had now started and the year eight boys were totally engaged, so was I.  Within minutes these year eight boys who were disengaged in the classroom were writing a story. Actually the shell of a story.

Simon signs the boys books and stamps them with a personally made Japanese Stamp.