Schoolkids enjoy special visit from author Theresa Breslin

Primary four pupils at Houston Primary enjoyed hearing from Theresa Breslin OBE, who officially opened the school's new library on Tuesday, September 12.

The children were delighted to take part in an interactive storytelling session, which involved the author reading her book The Dragon Stoorworm.

During Theresa's narration, pupils re-enacted the story while dressed up as the characters.

The author also signed copies of her books during the event, which was organised by Aileen Jeffrey, who owns The Ginger Cat Children’s Bookshop in Bridge of Weir.

Theresa said she was "delighted" to be asked to open the Houston Primary's new library.

She told The Gazette: "It was an absolute pleasure to open the library and meet some of the children who will benefit tremendously from this new addition to the school.

"Reading for pleasure is incredibly important and having been a librarian in a previous life I know all too well the positive impact that libraries can have."

Jennifer Murray, headteacher at Houston Primary, said: "The school really values the partnership with Aileen from our local independent bookshop The Ginger Cat Bookshop.

"It was wonderful to have author Theresa Breslin visit the school and share one of her books with the children, we were delighted that Aileen was able to arrange for Theresa to formally open our new school library. 

"As a teacher, I have spoken with many parents who despaired about their child's lack of desire to read for pleasure. I would tell them all the exact same thing, it only takes one book to get them hooked and then they’ll continue to read and experience that amazing feeling they enjoyed. 

"You've just got to keep searching for that book with them. Hopefully, our new library provides a welcoming and comfortable space to enjoy reading, and borrow, hundreds of fabulous books."

Several of the primary four pupils shared their delight in being involved in the event.

Rae, who is a member of Houston Primary's Literacy Leaders team, said: "We got to see the author cut the ribbon and everyone in the whole school had cake! 

"It is lovely to see everyone, especially the little ones, enjoying the library which we all helped to design, with hundreds of new books and comfy seats."

Isla said: "We got to dress up and tell the story. We had to use our imaginations and it felt real, bringing the story to life!"

Dougie added: "I liked having the story read to us by the actual author. I went home and read it again in my house."