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Award-winning author Patrice Lawrence came to HAB recently to deliver two outstanding writing workshops for 60 of our Year 8 students.

The fabulous workshops were organised by The National Literacy Trust as part of their marvellous Young Mystery Writers project. During the sessions, Patrice guided the students through the conventions of a mystery story and helped everyone to sharpen their mystery writing skills.

Using her novel Eight Pieces of Silva as a case study, Patrice helped students consider what makes a great sleuth, how to use clues effectively and what is needed for a satisfying conclusion.

Students then asked Patrice a whole host of questions about the life of a writer: How did you become a writer? What obstacles make the profession challenging? How should we start our stories?

Students and staff alike had a wonderful time listening to Patrice’s insights about mystery writing and her anecdotes about K-dramas, eavesdropping on buses and advocating for the rights of others through storytelling.

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What students said...

“I love that Patrice was so enthusiastic! She was on our level. She was kind, funny and cracking jokes.” Aarzo

"Patrice and her books are really relatable.” Ava

“The workshop was super informative. Patrice gave us some great advice about how to structure a story. You don’t have to start writing your story at the beginning.” Rafiat

“I really like the way Patrice gets inspiration from people she meets or people she sees on the bus. It makes her characters more realistic and believable.” Amelia

“Patrice has a way of delivering lessons that is really engaging!” Georgina

“Patrice kept asking us questions and that showed that she cares about our point of view which was great!” Fatim

“Patrice made mystery writing sound really exciting. I can’t wait to write my story now!” Aminata

Now that our budding authors have planned their mystery and had first hand advice from a pro, it’s time for them to put pen to paper and write their own stories. We can’t wait to read them!

Ms Morris

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