YWS at Trowbridge Library

My 13 year old daughter has been attending the Young Writers Squad sessions in Trowbridge Library and is enjoying them immensely. When she first heard about the project she was really excited, as she’s been looking for a chance to gain writing experience and share work with peers. She was particularly pleased that this programme had long sessions – allowing plenty of time to write and share work. She is already part of Thrillseekers Book group in Chippenham Library and knows the Children’s Librarian who was going to be involved – this made her feel confident about attending as she really enjoys Tracy’s books sessions. She had heard some of Sarah Benwell’s work read aloud at a session in the past too and so she knew it was a fantastic chance to work with a high quality writer.

My daughter is a keen reader and writer but she’s in year 9 and there are many other distractions for someone of that age! What this group has provided is support, inspiration, enthusiasm and motivation. She is enjoying meeting other young people who love to write and has been inspired by some of the work they’ve read aloud. She is reading and writing more than ever since taking part in this – and is keenly working on her own novel as well as short stories and pieces for the group. Finally, I should add that we live 14 miles away from Trowbridge and work very hard to fit this in between another child’s Thursday activities and a busy work schedule for both parents – even roping grandparents (who live 28 miles away from Trowbridge) into providing some of the lifts. We made this big effort because it’s a high quality, well run opportunity for a young writer and it’s the kind of experience that can make a lasting impression.

Lesley Taylor