We brought the magic and joy of an author visit to pupils at Kilmarnock Academy and St Joseph’s Academy through our funding of Live Literature sessions for local communities.
We are funding 13 sessions for children attending schools across east, central and west regions of Scotland to support celebrations around World Book Day.
Kilmarnock Academy S1 and S2 pupils had a visit from Neil Slorance, Glasgow based illustrator and comic artist, best known for his work on award winning comic Dungeon Fun and his work on Doctor Who comics.
The illustrator spent time with pupils exploring the benefits of reading and creating comics as well as some live drawing. The pupils, from the school’s Mindfulness Club run by the library and art department, also discussed how comics can be used as a way to relax.
Neil commented: “I had the absolute pleasure of working with the pupils at Kilmarnock Academy and sharing my love of illustration and comics. It was great sharing my work and also reading the pupils own stories. I was completely taken aback by how imaginative and talented they all were and I hope they keep drawing and writing!”
Audrey Ross, Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey West Scotland said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Scottish Book Trust and contribute to the celebration of World Book Day 2025. By funding author visits in local schools in areas where we build, we aim to inspire young readers and support Scottish Book Trust’s mission to bring the magic of books to life. This initiative aligns with our commitment to supporting our local communities, and our team enjoyed meeting with Neil Slorance at our first event in Kilmarnock. It was fabulous to see first-hand the positive impact the session had on the students at Kilmarnock Academy.”
Live Literature, running for over 50 years, inspires a love of reading and writing and is delivered by Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives through reading and writing.
Marc Lambert, CEO Scottish Book Trust, said: “With Taylor Wimpey’s generous support, it’s fantastic to be bringing author visits to children to celebrate World Book Day and kick start a love of reading which brings so many benefits to children. Taking authors into the heart of schools and communities provides a very valuable and creative experience for children.”