Author Jack Meggitt-Phillips began the tour for his new book, Jekyll vs Hyde: The Potion of Doom, with sessions at Earls High School in Halesowen on Thursday, September 17. The event attracted hundreds of children from local primary and secondary schools.
Theatrical reading and workshop highlights
The sessions included a theatrical reading of the opening chapter of the new book, a humorous quiz with deliberately 'rubbish' prizes, and a collaborative character creation workshop. The activities were designed to engage young readers and spark their creativity.
The event was organised in partnership with Ros Bartlett of the Dudley Children’s Book Group (Dudley FCBG) and supported by Jenny Rock, director of reading at Earls High. Copies of the book were provided by H and H Spalding Books.
Author's journey from reluctant reader to bestselling writer
Jack Meggitt-Phillips, who also works as a scriptwriter and presenter, shared his experiences as a former reluctant reader. His debut children's series, The Beast and the Bethany, has been translated into over 30 languages, and a major film deal has been announced.
Reflecting on the event, Mr Meggitt-Phillips said: "The children were worryingly good at creating monstrously funny characters. I shall be having nightmares about the beastly brother, the sinister spider and the hungry clown for many years to come."
Impact on local schools and reading culture
The visit provided a direct opportunity for pupils to interact with a published author and learn about the creative process behind book writing. The collaboration between the school, the Dudley Children’s Book Group, and local bookseller H and H Spalding Books underlined the community effort to promote reading among young people in the area.
The tour stop in Halesowen represented the first public appearance for the new book, setting the tone for subsequent events elsewhere. The sessions concluded with the character creation workshop, leaving participants with a hands-on experience of building story figures.
