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David Almond

David Almond talks about his award-winning book, 'Skellig', how he uses light and dark in the story, how he takes inspiration from Greek Myths and more

About The Author:

David Almond is the author of Skellig, My Name is Mina, Island, Bone Music and many other novels, stories, picture books, opera librettos, songs and plays. His work is translated into 40 languages, and is widely adapted for stage and screen. His major awards include the Carnegie Medal, two Whitbread Awards, the Eleanor Farjeon Award, the Michael L Printz Award (USA), Le Prix Sorcières (France), the Nonino International Prize, the James Kruss Prize and the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize. He has also won the Hans Christian Andersen Award, the world's most prestigious prize for children's authors. In 2021, David was awarded an OBE for services to literature.

 

About The Book:

The bestselling story about love, loss and hope that launched David Almond as one of the best children's writers of today. Winner of the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Children's Book of the Year Award, this unforgettable book now has captivating illustrations by Tom de Freston to celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary.

 

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An introduction to 'Skellig'

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The inspiration behind 'Skellig'

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A reading from 'Skellig'

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David's writing challenge

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What can you tell us about Michael and Mina?

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Why did you want to include themes of 'wilderness' in the story?

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How have you used light and dark as a contrast in the story?

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Why did you want to mention characters from Greek Mythology?

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Why did you want the story to end with an air of mystery?

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How did you make the story feel raw and lifelike?

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Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

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Do you have a favourite scene or chapter in the book?

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Resource Download: 'Skellig' Extract