Primary students were delighted to attend writing and illustrating sessions with writer and illustrator, James Foley this week. His sessions, initially scheduled for Book Week last term, guided students through the many aspects of writing and creating illustrations that told a story.

“My favourite part was getting to draw in the style that Mr Foley draws in his books – very raggedy lines and with a creepy vibe,” said Year 6 student, Imogen.

Mr Foley captivates the students with quirky live illustrations, along with a good touch of humour.

“I loved when Mr Foley told us the jokes he uses in his stories – they were really very funny!” said Year 6 student, Tanner.

Mr Foley has been speaking to students since he first started publishing books in 2009 with his aim to encourage them to continue creative writing.

“[These sessions] are just a really great way to try and encourage other creatives like myself, when they are really young to try and make stories and go for it, because if you have not seen other people who have done it, you cannot really tell it is possible,” said Mr Foley.

“I look forward to seeing what sort of funny suggestions the students come up with, and the awesome things they decide to draw – not so I can steal them for books, but it is just wonderful to see how amazing children’s imaginations are. It really inspires me to be more childish in my drawings!” added Mr Foley.