Author inspires Wirral pupils during World Book Week visit (From Wirral Globe)
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Author inspires Wirral pupils during World Book Week visit
3:37pm Thursday 7th March 2013 in News By Craig Manning
Bali Rai talks to pupils
CELEBRATED writer Bali Rai paid a visit to a Wirral school this week and told students they must be proud of what they do.
The author of young adult and children's books spoke on subjects ranging from Jamaican slang to the brain's cognitive powers during his trips to Bebington High Sports College.
Grove Street Primary School pupils also attended the college to hear Bali's talk.
Born and bred in Leicester, Bali is from a large family with roots in India and has fond memories of his childhood, with many of the characters from his life turning up in his books.
A spokesman for Bebington High Sports College said: "The students really related to Bali as he is not from a wealthy background and can remember times from his teenage years being challenging as well as fulfilling.
"He read from his book "Revenge of the Number Two" which the students really enjoyed because it tackles the issue of bullying but, in true Bali style, it twists the theme into a comedy showing how ridiculous some reasons for bullying can be."
Bali also spoke about developing cognitive skills, not just through reading but through learning in general.
He said: "Computer games are not an enemy as long as they are played in moderation and with a balance of other learning experiences".
He also took a creative writing session for the Gifted and Talented students from Bebington High.
They were treated to an insight of how to build stories in different genres, creating and developing plots within their stories and developing characters.
Bali's final quote was: "Be proud of what you do with your head - and be proud of what is in your heart."
Students and staff from Bebington High Sports College dressed as character from books including 'Wizard of Oz', Harry Potter and Where's Wally as part of World Book Day.
The day promotes literacy, encouraging young people to embrace a love of reading.
