We were delighted to attend an event at Seven Stories, The National Centre for Childrens Books in Newcastle upon Tyne, with visiting author and illustrator Katie Abey who recently had her picture book We Wear Pants published by Bloomsbury. You can find our review of the book here.
Little One (3 year old) and Baby (1 year old) have met a few authors and illustrators this year and we love how such visits can bring a book to life. I also think it is brilliant when there is an activity to go alongside the book reading, I’m sure that doesn’t surprise you.
The event was advertised for 4 year olds and up on the Seven Stories website however, I knew that my 1 year old would enjoy the storytelling. As it was a weekend event it meant my husband was able to attend also and an extra pair of hands with two children is never a bad thing. The session was priced at £3 per ticket and lasted 45 minutes.
The session began with a fun introduction from Seven Stories staff and then it was on to Katie Abey.
Katie gave an insight in to her life and told us all about her pet cat and hedgehog which both my girls loved. Katie absolutely adores animals and this is certainly reflected in her book We Wear Pants. A reading of the book We Wear Pants followed and it was a really interactive storytelling giving children an opportunity to answer questions and discuss their favourite illustrations. Little One was so attentive and keen to answer questions. (Could this be how she is in nursery?)
Fun continued and Katie taught us all, yes parents included, how to draw animals and pants!
From bears to penguins, we all had fun doing our best at drawing Katie Abey style. Below are illustrations my eldest and I competed. I adore the blue penguin Little One illustrated.
Little One had such a great time and is always in awe of the amazing room Seven Stories hosts its storytelling events in.
Soon after the event there was an opportunity to get books signed in Seven Stories brilliant bookshop. Of course we didn’t refuse.
This was another great workshop organised by Seven Stories and I was delighted to be invited along. Look out over on my Twitter, Instagram and Facebook pages as I will be hosting a giveaway where you could win a SIGNED copy of We Wear Pants with thanks to Seven Stories.
To find out about more upcoming events at Seven Stories you can visit their website here.
Disclaimer: Seven Stories kindly provided us with complimentary tickets for this event.
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