author journal: Dragonfly Song Giveaway: Books & Skype Talks

Kersey Creek's photo from OneSchoolOne Book

Have I ever said how much I love Skype talks? I think the biggest percentage I do are with schools in the USA that are studying Nim's Island for One School One Book. (I will blog about that amazing program another time.) In Australia I've done them for general writing talks as well as for individual books.

And now I'm so excited about the feedback and reviews I've been getting for Dragonfly Song, both formal and informal (like people phoning and emailing to say they're loving it – that is so nice!) that I'm offering a free Skype talk to the first three schools to order a class set.

e.g. Dimity Powell writes: '...the sweeping majesty of an epic novel and the thrill of a mid-grade fantasy that will win leagues of young new fans. Powerful, eloquent and moving, Dragonfly Song is a story you will never want to leave.'

And Pamela Freeman (Pamela Hart) said on Facebook: 'Everyone must read this. It's right up there with The Wizard of Earthsea and Mary Stewart's The Crystal Cave.'

A whole list of quotes like this might not thrill you as much as it does me, so I'll quit there. Teaching notes and an excerpt from the book can be downloaded from my website: wendyorr.com or Allen and Unwin.

ALSO: GOODREADS IS GIVING AWAY 5 COPIES! But you have to be quick.

A piece of chipped flint, like Aissa's 'knife'

There are more classroom suggestion on Pinterest: Dragonfly Song Background and Teaching Ideas

The books is suggested for ages 9 to 13, and ties in with the Victorian ancient history units in Year 7, but I'm visiting a school next week that's looking at it for their Year 10 classes. Have a look at the excerpt and decide for yourselves!