John Marsden, Eleanor Catton Headline Auckland Writers Festival Schools’ Programme

Australian ‘national treasure’ John Marsden, multiple award-winning German fantasy author Cornelia Funke, our very own Booker Prize winning author Eleanor Catton and globally lauded writer, Lloyd Jones are just a few among the global and local line-up of writers treating students to events at this year’s Auckland Writers Festival Schools’ Programme.

Tickets – which are only open for purchase via schools - are now available.  The events - which cater for students from Year 5 to Year 13 - have all sold out in previous years, so schools are encouraged to book early.

Auckland Writers Festival director, Anne O’Brien says the schools’ programme demonstrates an unswerving commitment to inspiring young writers and readers.

“The Festival is delighted to offer two exciting days of workshops, entertainment and talks by some of the world’s best-known children’s writers. Encouraging a life-long love of reading by introducing writers to young readers is an important part of the Festival’s philosophy.”

Eleanor Catton will talk about her path from a Canterbury childhood to the world’s stage as the youngest person ever to win the Booker Prize. She will discuss writing, ideas and the art of telling a story that readers don’t want to put down.

Best-selling and award-winning author, teacher, school principal and Australian national treasure John Marsden is one of the most beloved young adult writers of our time.  Best known for his Tomorrow series, John will talk about language, writing and communication.

Other events include writing workshops by critically acclaimed Kiwi writers Elizabeth Knox and Ted Dawe; performances by British comic writer/illustrator duo The Etherington Brothers, soloist extraordinaire Trygve Wakenshaw (aka Squidboy) and a songwriting session with The X Factor finalist, Benny Tipene.

For a full schools’ programme please go to www.writersfestival.co.nz. To make enquiries, email schools@writersfestival.co.nz and for bookings go to groups@ticketmaster.co.nz or call ticketmaster on 09 970 9745.

Day attendance (entry to four sessions) is just $12 per student and must be booked through schools. Schools needing financial transport assistance can apply to the Festival Schools Transport Fund.  All events take place at the Aotea Centre.  Bookings close 10 April.

The Auckland Writers Festival Charitable Trust warmly thanks our Grant Partners: ASB Community Trust, Creative New Zealand; Sponsors: Barfoot and Thompson and South Pacific Pictures; Funding Partners Australian Government, Australian Council for the Arts, Goethe Institut and our  Donor Partners Auckland University Press (AUP), HarperCollins publishers (New Zealand) and Warwick.