Celia Rees, award-winning author, visited Bedford Modern School
Her novel ‘Witch Child’ has been published in 28 languages and is required reading in secondary schools in the UK. Celia’s recent novels have been historical but she has also written a diverse range of publications ranging from Shakespeare to vampires.
“I never know where the next book idea will come from,” said Celia. “Once, I was watching an open air production of Twelfth Night in Stratford and felt captivated, just like it would have been in an Elizabethan theatre.”
This became Celia’s starting point for her romantic historical novel ‘The Fool’s Girl’. “This story features Shakespeare who is known all over the world and I wanted to find a way of telling a story that would make Shakespeare more interesting,” said Celia.
Set in 1601, ‘The Fool’s Girl’ traces the story of Violetta and Feste, in London, with William Shakespeare enjoying success at The Globe Theatre. In a quest that could mean the difference between life and death, this adventure story stretches from the shores of Illyria to the Forest of Arden.
Throughout her writing career Celia has written 21 books. ‘Witch Child’ is Celia’s best-selling book to date and was selected as one of The Guardian newspaper’s best ever children’s books for 12 year olds and over.
“When I was at school my teachers would have said I was the least likely person in the class to become a published writer. After leaving school I became an English teacher and studied a Masters Degree in Education, involving a creative writing project.
“I received favourable comment on my writing and it was suggested I try and arrange publication. Everyone needs someone to tell them that they are doing something good and worthwhile. I applied this principle to my teaching and, for example, when I asked my students to write something about their life, I also wrote about my life. The students identified with this and their standard of work improved although they stopped reading because they said there were no books about people like them that were exciting,” added Celia.
This inspired Celia to start writing and her first book, called ‘Every Step You Take’ arose from a conversation with a friend about a group of pupils on an outdoor pursuit weekend who become mixed up in a murder hunt.
“I feel passionate about each book I write,” said Celia. “No matter how many copies a book sells, each book is important to me. I have always liked reading and have met most of the British children’s authors including Michael Morpurgo and Jacqueline Wilson although I have not met J.K. Rowling.”
One of Celia’s historical novels took approximately 12 to 18 months to research and Celia says that drafting is a very important aspect of writing. “The first draft is a sketch of the story and from this comes depth of writing and the establishment of meaningful connections.”
Celia’s advice for aspiring writers is to jot down all ideas; keep a file of news clippings and photos that may be helpful; read as much as possible; develop a plot and be original. Find out more about Celia and her publications at http://www.celiarees.com/
Bedford Modern School would like to thank Celia Rees for sparing her time to visit the School.
