Article on Music and Creative Writing by James Carter in Teach Primary Magazine

Teach Primary magazine is full of articles, ideas, lesson plans and news for primary schools. They also have 2 sister publications, Teach Secondary and Teach Nursery. Recently, James Carter's article on how to motivate pupils' creativity with music and it was published in Teach Primary magazine. Many thanks to Joe Carter, Editor, who has allowed us to share the feature with you.

For more information on Teach Primary visit www.teachprimary.com and for more info on James Carter visit www.bookapoet.co.uk/James Carter or email us at info@bookapoet.co.uk.

© Copyright 2012 Teach Primary. Do not use without publisher’s permission.

© Copyright 2012 Teach Primary. Do not use without publisher’s permission.

Our latest read: The Devil's Creature in the City of the Dead

Fancy a horror story this summer? This teen fiction will have your spine tingling! 

'The Devil's Creature in the City of the Dead' - By R H Stewart
Published by Barny Books August 2009
RRP £5.99
ISBN 9781906542177
Reviewed by Kate Tarrant

Initially I thought it was going to take a while for me to get into this book - the rich, descriptive language, and its very dark opening scene with flashbacks to the past, instantly showed me that this was a story that needed my undivided attention. Nevertheless, this is not a criticism - this fantastically detailed book makes you a compulsive reader - from the outset it promises to capture its readers, swallowing them up in an imaginary world where good and evil battle it out. 

Set in Glasgow, the story is centred around Mhairi, a 14-year-old witch, who together with her black cat called Jet and her human companion Dougie, set out on a quest against a vampire, released into the world by the great and evil power Lord Antoninus. Along the way the team solve murders that are taking place all over the Necropolis (also called City of the Dead) as well as meeting ghosts and ghuls. Although quite violent in places, this is a richly imaginative and compelling fantasy story. A truly original horror tale that will scare both adults and teens!

Exclusive Interview with author Benjamin J Myers

With the highly anticpated epic final instalment of the Bad Tuesdays series 'The Spiral Horizon', we've been luckily enough to catch up with the very busy Benjamin J Myers, who's kindly answered our questions ...

Where did the inspiration for ‘The Bad Tuesdays’ come from?

It must be a rare book for which there is only one source of inspiration. I can think of at least three that lie behind ‘The Bad Tuesdays’. I wanted to capture in words the excitement and menace of my favourite films (films like ‘Alien’, ‘Blade Runner’ and ‘The Matrix’) and the energy of comic book art. I wanted to create a world where the boundaries of everyday reality and the fantastic overlapped (not so very different from our world, once you accept a spiritual dimension and the extraordinary universe of quantum physics – or is that universes?). And I wanted to write about people who were faced with overwhelming challenges and faced them from what appeared to be a hopeless starting point.  Young, damaged people like the Tuesdays exist. I wanted to show that no matter what is thrown at them, they are capable of pulling through, and what gets them through is who they are. Ordinary people can do extraordinary things.  

Do you have a favourite character from ‘The Bad Tuesdays’ series? Why?

I couldn’t pick one favourite character, and Ethel would slaughter me if I didn’t pick her. But some characters are easier to write than others: Ethel, Splinter and General Saxmun Vane seem to be able to say and do what they want with the minimum interpretation by me. I think that’s because none of them ever let other people’s feelings get in the way of what they want to say or do. Obviously, the Tuesdays themselves, Chess, Box and Splinter, are very close to me, but them aside, maybe my favourite characters are the ones who are there, supporting others with stoicism, notwithstanding a measure of bewilderment, characters like Pacer, Crazy Boris and Captain Riley. And of course, I love Anna. She is brave, resourceful, unswerving in her character and an iron friend. People like that really matter, particularly when chaos reigns.    

Do you have an ending planned for ‘The Spiral Horizon’ since you wrote the first book, or did you let the stories evolve as you wrote them?

The stories were planned meticulously. It would be impossible to have such an intricate plot without a huge amount of planning. I knew what lay ahead of the principal characters and how the various aspects of the plot would resolve from the outset. Obviously, elements of the stories developed in the writing: you have to make space for the narrative to unfold and for the characters to drive that narrative in their direction. But I had the final sentence of the six books in view as I began to write the first.

Is it difficult to write a series or do you view them as separate stories when you write?

The six books tell one story. One of the challenges in the writing has been to break that down into six stories, each delivering a beginning, a middle and an end whilst advancing the overall story. This means that some plot lines span one book, some span several and some span the whole series.  Whilst this has made the series a complex one to write, it makes it the more rewarding for readers because they are able to enjoy a deepening involvement with the characters and enjoy the hit of getting the answers to their questions as the stories unfold.

As well as an author you are a barrister – where do you find time to write?

By sleeping less than I should!

Do you have plans to write any books in the future that are based on your life experiences, such as being in the military, or the courts? Or do you prefer science-fiction / fantasy as it’s removed from ‘every-day’ life?

At the moment, I don’t plan to write any books that directly relay my experiences, but most writing must be informed by some experience so I imagine it’s all there. There is a fair amount of military activity in ‘The Bad Tuesdays’ and more than a handful of criminals. I really enjoy science fiction and fantasy but I wouldn’t say that it is far removed from everyday life. Well-conceived science fiction, in particular, is a way of writing about reality but in a way which allows for the isolation and exploration of particular issues. Just look at classics such as ‘Brave New World’, ‘1984’, and the much under-read ‘The Chrysalids’. All of them stunningly accurate. You’ll find more sensible analysis of gender, politics, power and society in science fiction than many other forms of ‘every-day life’ fiction, and have a good deal more fun whilst you do so.

Do you have any top tips for budding writers?
 
1. READ.  Lots. Read well and read widely. That’s the top tip.
2. Plan your story – at least give it a beginning, a middle and an end.
3. Keep at it.  Writing takes time so make time – it won’t happen otherwise.  And don’t be spooked by the blank page. Fill it. The only way of writing is by writing. You can always cross it out and start again if you’re not satisfied.
4. Cross it out and start again if you’re not satisfied (which means, if it isn’t the absolute best you can do).
5. Write with a type of reader in mind – writing for yourself may be deeply satisfying but that’s therapy. If you want to be a writer, write for yourself by all means but make sure you are writing for others too. 

Do you have any projects in the pipeline you’d like to tell us about?

I have so many ideas it’s amazing I ever get round to settling on any one of them. I am planning a new story but wouldn’t say more about it than that. I’ve discovered that for me, the more I talk about what I’m going to write, the less I write it!

Where can fans of you and your books find out more about you and your writing?

I am on Twitter (‘Benjamin J Myers’) but I’m not great at regular tweeting (sorry!).  However, there are fans who have set up a Facebook page. I can always be contacted via the people at Orion Publishing and I’m happy to talk about the books, the writing and answer any questions.

Interview by Lynsey Evans

The Bad Tuesdays: The Spiral Horizon
By Benjamin J Myers
Published by Orion Books on 2nd August 2012
RRP £6.99
ISBN 9781842556443

The epic conclusion to the thrilling Bad Tuesdays series ...

Can three children save the Universe against impossible odds?

Children everywhere are disappearing. Orphan, Chess Tuesday, and her brothers, Box and Splinter, don't want to be next. But they are being tracked by two powerful enemy organisations, each intent on destroying the other.

The time when the twelve suns become one is drawing closer and it could mark the end of all things. Only Chess Tuesday can prevent destruction … or make it happen.

She has a choice to make, but there are powerful forces trying to influence her decision and Chess isn't sure who the enemy is any more. Is it Splinter, who betrayed her, and who is now falling forever through time and space?


THE BAD TUESDAYS STORY SO FAR…

Book 1: TWISTED SYMMETRY

Children everywhere are disappearing. Orphan, Chess Tuesday, and her brothers, Box and Splinter, don't want to be next. But they are being tracked by two powerful enemy organizations, each intent on destroying the other.

Who is good and who is evil? Why do both sides need the Tuesdays? And can anyone escape the hunters? Chess, Box and Splinter are about to embark on a terrifying mission to find out.


Book 2: STRANGE ENERGY

Chess and her brothers, Box and Splinter, are caught in a bitter struggle between two ruthless organizations. Now they face a terrifying choice - carry out a dangerous mission for the Committee, or try to outrun the evil Twisted Symmetry alone.

Chess wants to take the mission. But it could prove fatal. And it will lead the Tuesdays into the heart of the very organization that is hunting them…

Book 3: BLOOD ALCHEMY

Chess Tuesday is on the run...And the deadly Twisted Symmetry isn't far behind. They've already hunted down and imprisoned her brothers, Box and Splinter.

In a world where neither friends, enemies nor family are what they seem, trust is not an option. And Chess is about to discover that the truth may be more dangerous than she ever thought possible.

Book 4: THE NONSUCH KING

Splinter Tuesday is hungry for power, and he has a daring plan to get it - if he can stay alive, that is. His brother, Box, is fighting for his life on a distant planet. His sister, Chess, is learning to walk between the worlds. Only then will she be ready to take on the evil Twisted Symmetry - and win.

But the Twisted Symmetry has plans of its own. Time is running out. Splinter, Box and Chess have never been in more danger.

Book 5: A CRYSTAL HORSEMAN

Chess must decide who to trust as things begin to spiral out of control.

Box is now part of the Twisted Symmetry's Elite Cavalry. Has he forgotten where his loyalties lie? Is it too late? Or can he still help Chess in her struggle to stop the Twisted Symmetry's sinister plan?

'The Bad Tuesdays' series are all available to purchase from all good bookshops and online store now. You can find more out about the books and Benjamin J Myers at www.orionbooks.co.uk/authors/j.-myers-benjamin.

Our Recommended Reads from July 2012

Check out the reviews section of our website for the latest recommended reads - from children's fiction to poetry and classic reads we're sure there is something for everyone. We also welcome your reviews too - email them to 'Reviews' at info@bookapoet.co.uk and we'll let you know when we use it!

Below are the titles we recommended during July 2012:

‘Nefertiti in the Flak Tower’ by Clive James (Picador Poetry)

'I Spy with My Little Eye on the Farm' by Edward Gibbs (Templar Publishing)

‘My Brother Simple’ by Marie-Aude Murail (Bloomsbury)

‘Call Down Thunder’ by Daniel Finn (Macmillan Children’s Books)

‘The Dragon Prophecy: The Dragonology Chronicles’ by Dugald A. Steer (Templar Publishing)

‘Tiger Wars: The Falcon Chronicles’ (Book 1) by Steve Backshall (Orion Books)
 'Gods and Warriors' by Michelle Paver (Puffin)

‘Icespell’ by C J Busby (Templar Publishing)

‘Why Owls Are the Wisest Birds’ by Eric Pullin / Illustrated by Chris Davis (Barny Books)

‘The Ring of Sky: Young Samurai’ (Book 8) by Chris Bradford (Puffin)

August's recommended reads will start to appear on the website from next week. A selection of reviews will be published here too, as well as on our Facebook page and Twitter account.

Exclusive Interview with author Michael Gerard Bauer!

We've been lucky enough to interview Michael Gerard Bauer, author of the brilliant and hilarious teen novels 'Don't Call Me Ishmael' and 'Ishmael and the Return of the Dugongs'. (Think along the lines of younger Australian In-Betweeners and you'll understand why these books have been such a hit with readers worldwide!)

Where did the inspiration from ‘Don’t Call Me Ishmael’ and ‘Ishmael and the Return of the Dugongs’ come from?

The whole thing started because of the famous first line of Herman Melville’s classic novel Moby Dick. I had a picture on my notice-board beside my desk, of a scene from the old movie featuring Gregory Peck as Captain Ahab. One day when I looked at it, I thought about that opening line and imagined someone – it seemed like a teenage boy - saying the opposite, ‘Don’t call me Ishmael’. That started me asking questions. Who is this boy called Ishmael? Why doesn’t he like his name? Why did his parents give him that name? What is his personality like? Three books came from that picture being on my wall and that very first simple thought. I’m constantly amazed how stories grow from such tiny seeds. And if I can mix in another metaphor, it’s a bit like finding one piece of a jigsaw puzzle and starting to wonder what might connect to it. If you’re lucky, sometimes a picture begins to form.

How do you make your characters ‘real’ so teens can relate to them?

I threaten them with violence! No, not really. I think being around teenagers all the years I was a teacher automatically helps a great deal in making the voice and personalities of the characters at least believable. All the boys in the story are based on ‘types’ of boys I’ve known and taught. A couple of them started off based on real people. And even though I haven’t been a teacher for a while now, I still visit lots of schools as an author. The other thing that helps me create young characters is probably a disturbing lack of maturity on my part.

Is it difficult to write for teen boys, particularly when they are more reluctant readers than girls?

It’s extremely difficult and I wouldn’t advise anyone else to even attempt to do it! Just leave it entirely to me. And if you are currently doing it, then stop immediately because it will only end in tears! Now that I’ve effectively eliminated all opposition, what I’d like to say is, that when I’m writing the Ishmael stories I don’t really have a specific target audience of teen boys in mind. My first audience is always me. (Luckily I’m a big fan!) I just try to write the stories that make me laugh or touch me or that show the way I see people and the world and the things I hold dear. If I can do that, then hopefully there will be other people out there like me. (A frightening thought I know.) In the end, I’d like to think that boys, girls and adults could all find something to enjoy in the books. The other thing I’d say is that in the battle to engage more reluctant readers, humour is a great ally to have. And I’ve always loved humour.

Will there be more tales of Ishmael’s high school disasters and capers in the future?

I’ve already written the third book of the series titled Ishmael and the Hoops of Steel. It covers the last two years of Ishmael’s life at St Daniel’s College and ends on Graduation night. Now that they have headed off into the big world, I think that will be the end of my writing about Ishmael, Razz and the gang. It was a bitter-sweet experience for me to complete their story. I’ve become very close to all the characters and they are very real to me. It will probably sound weird, but I had to brush away more than a few tears, while writing some of the final scenes for the last instalment.  

Do you get any fans suggesting ideas for what Ishmael could get up to next?

I don’t get any fans, period! But some of the lovely people who have liked the series and followed it through to the end, have suggested a few things for a fourth book. Ishmael at University? The Razz Diaries? Ishmael – the Missing Journals? Ishmael - the Primary Years? Not sure about any of those ever happening, but if they did, then I could see The Razz Diaries making for interesting reading!

Are there any plans for the books to be turned into a TV series or film?

That would be a very exciting development. Nothing of that sort mentioned as yet, although in Australia there has been a stage production based on one of the books. My son Joe is a young film-maker (his horror/comedy film The Killage won Best in Festival at the 2011 Crystal Palace International Film Festival) so maybe we could keep it in the family. The only trouble is, as well as directing, acting, editing and doing the special effects, Joe also writes his own brilliant and funny scripts, so I might be waiting a long time!

Do you think ‘School days are the best days of your life’ (as the saying goes!)?

I hope not! It would be sad if everything was downhill from there. But I think they can be one of the great highlights and where you can form some fantastic friendships which can last a lifetime. To me that’s what the Ishmael stories are all about. Ishmael’s school days are not perfect by any means. They have triumphs and disasters, laughter and tears, joy and pain, but it’s his friendships that get him through and make everything worthwhile. 

Do you have any projects in the pipeline you’d like to tell us about?

At present I’m writing a series of three humorous books for younger readers. The first one will come out here in Australia in November this year. The main character is in Grade 5. They will be illustrated with cartoons throughout and the really exciting thing for me is that my son Joe is the illustrator. Not only is he a great film-maker, he’s a great artist as well. He’s incredibly talented. It’s soooo annoying!

Where can fans of you and your books find out more about you and your writing?

I blog at http://michaelgerardbauer@wordpress.com.

You can also find me on Facebook at: Michael Gerard Bauer Author.

Interview by Lynsey Evans, Book a Poet

'Don't Call Me Ishmael' and 'Ishmael and the Return of the Dugongs' are published by Templar Publishing in the UK and are available to buy from all good bookshops and online stores.

Check out our review of both books at www.bookapoet.co.uk/book_reviews/childrens_books/teens/

Featured Poem for August 2012

'Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana'

by Neal Zetter

What’s the longest fruit you’ve seen?

Found in milkshake, yoghurt and ice cream

When they’re on my plate I lick it clean

A tremendous taste

Too good to waste

Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana

You’ll slip upon their slimy skin

So put the peel into the bin

What word doesn’t stop after it begins?

Simply unending

I’m always bending my

Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana

You can mash them

You can squash them

You can squish them

You can gulp them

You can fry them

You can spread them

You can pound them

You can pulp them

When I ask what food you’ve had today

I’m hoping that you’re going to say

Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana

Monkeys eat them at the zoo

They’re yellow and black not orange and blue

Ideal in soup or in a stew

They’re versatile

Shaped like a smile

Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana

Buy them buy the kilo, pound or bunch

Stick them in your sandwich box for lunch

They’re the ideal snack when it comes to the crunch

Travelling all the way from Jamaica

What fruit’s got a name that’s a record breaker?

Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana

Before you get some from the store

Shout out this poem’s title once more

Ba nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana nana.

© Copyright Neal Zetter 2012. Please do not use without the poet’s permission.
 

Neal Zetter has recently joined us here at Book a Poet and his web page will be available to view shortly at www.bookapoet.co.uk. In the meantime please contact us with any enquiries at info@bookapoet.co.uk.

'Love or Money' by Dean Atta - Free Download Link!

Out today is Dean Atta's new EP, which is available to download for free!

Following on from ‘Reason & Rhyme’ and ‘Missing Piece’, ‘Love or Money’ is a 5-track EP of poems performed by Dean Atta with music and vocals from his very talented friends Michael Antoniou, Kareem Dayes, Yussef Dayes, Chantelle Nandi, Renell Shaw and Ayanna Witter-Johnson. It was mastered by Matthew Zouhar - Lewis @ Mazoulew Recordings and the artwork is by Ben Connors.

Download it here http://deanatta.bandcamp.com/album/love-or-money and enjoy!