The Storylines Children’s Literature Charitable Trust started its week-long tour of Southland yesterday, as part of its national story festival.
Five leading authors and illustrators will visit schools and education centres with the aim of bringing children’s writers together with their readers to encourage literacy.
Pupils from Waverley Park School in Invercargill had a visit yesterday from writers Pauline Smith, of Invercargill, and Sue Copsey, of Auckland, who were welcomed with a warm powhiri.
Deputy principal Helen Kennedy was delighted the school was taking part in such an important project.
"We are privileged and excited about being given this opportunity," she said.
Ms Smith said it was great to be able to connect with children as well with other writers to share their experiences.
Until Friday, schools from across the region would receive visits in a hope to inspire, she said.
"If we inspire a writer, one child writer, it is all worth it," she said.
