Epworth Library/ Anthony McGowan Trip Write Up by Katie Munro, English - Student Teacher

On Wednesday 4th February, a group of 26 enthusiastic Year 7 students visited Epworth Library for a brilliant author event with the award‑winning Anthony McGowan. The trip offered an incredible chance to hear McGowan speak about his life, his writing, and the real experiences that inspire his stories. He entertained the audience with hilarious tales from his month‑long solo expedition to Kluane National Park and Reserve in Canada, where he carried out research for Bear Adventure. including the unforgettable moment he thought he was face‑to‑face with a bear, only to discover it was pine cones! McGowan also treated students to a reading from his newest book, The Beck inviting Leo to join him on stage to play both Grandad and a stream, complete with a wonderfully over‑the‑top Elvis wig. The event ended with a Q&A session where our students asked thoughtful, confident questions. Each student left with a handmade, signed bookmark from McGowan—a brilliant memento of an inspiring afternoon.

SK said “I really liked the trip, I especially loved hearing about authors and their different points of view. I’d love to be an author when I'm older so it was great to hear about how he wrote. ” 

FG said “It was so much fun. Anthony was hilarious talking about his trip in Canada. I enjoyed learning more about how authors write and how long it takes them to write. I would go on a trip like that again”

IM said “I loved the trip, he was really funny. I felt inspired to read all the animal books he has written. Overall just a really good trip. “

HG said “The author used lots of humour and was loud  when he was talking which was interesting and made me pay attention. He also has lots of different kinds of books which made me want to read them. Especially about the dog in Chernobyl."