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What a day! Thursday 6th March, World Book Day, saw a range of fantastic launch events with author Mal Peet. First of all, Mal attended drama and reading workshops run by Lucy Brite and Fil Fiori at both football grounds. Pupils from Notre Dame Catholic High School attended Liverpool Football Club to meet and chat to Mal Peet, and pupils from Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School went to Everton Football Club. Both groups had a great time using the book to inspire their dramatic sides and meeting the author.

Mal Peet with pupils from Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School

Mal Peet with pupils from Notre Dame Catholic High School

Mal Peet and Coordinator Bea Colley then had a scary moment as they were interviewed in the Radio City tower and both admitted a terrible fear of heights!

Then it was straight on to….

Sponsor's launch

The Sponsor's launch was the first ever event to be help at the newly refurbished Bluecoat building, a week before its official opening. The event began with guests being greeted by Bluecoat staff who served refreshments and encouraged them to pick up their free copy of Mal Peet's books.

An introductory speech was made by Bea Colley, the Coordinator of the project, before Mal was interviewed by Jane Davis, Director of The Reader Magazine and Chair of Liverpool Reads. The interview proved extremely interesting, with Mal saying he had been delighted to have his works chosen as the subject of this year's Liverpool Reads. Before the event ended, Mal signed copies of his books.

Mal Peet, Jane Davis, and Bea Colley at the Bluecoat

Public Launch

The official public launch for Liverpool Reads was held in an equally beautiful and historic venue, the Picton room of Central Library, which with its impressive circular design, and walls filled with books proved the perfect setting for the event.

Upon arrival, guests, were treated to an array of delicious sandwiches, cakes and other refreshments, catered for by Shirley Valentines. A talented and exquisitely costumed samba band from Liverpool Samba School played while everyone eagerly viewed Mal's books and took their copies to read for the project.

Jane Davis again interviewed Mal, and both captured the attention of the audience with their conversation. The crowd was very dynamic, ranging from enthusiastic school children to experienced readers, all who asked thought provoking questions and enjoyed the event making it a great success! Again, Mal graciously signed copies of his work which added a lovely finish to a fantastic evening.

Mal Peet, Cy Powell (Director of Regeneration at Cobalt Housing - Liverpool Reads' sponsors), Chelsea Rutherford and Tom Cain (members of the Cobalt Youth Board), and Liverpool Samba School

For those readers who have registered with Liverpool Reads ... there is the regular Liverpool Reads Newsletter to look forward to. If you haven't registered yet follow this link.

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