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A children’s author is turning to pupils in Roydon to approve her books before publishing.

Pupils at Roydon Primary Academy get a first glimpse of books by Jennifer Killick before they go to print.

The author visited the school in 2018 to speak with pupils about her first book, Alex Sparrow and The Really Big Stink.

She has kept in touch with the school ever since, sending drafts of her books to be read and reviewed by pupils before they are finalised.

The author was welcomed back into the school via video link to speak with Year 5 and 6 pupils about her latest book, Crater Lake.

Year 6 teacher and lead practitioner Matt Girvan said: “We have kept in touch with Jennifer via Twitter since her first visit. She even included some of the children’s names and quotes in her third novel in the Alex Sparrow series, Zumbie Apocalypse.

“She regularly sends them signed postcards and posters for our reading corners and even sends me proof copies of her books to read to the children months before they’re published.

“This time around, Jennifer spoke to the children about her most recent novel, Crater Lake, played games with them and answered some of the children’s questions.

“The children absolutely loved the virtual visit from Jennifer. Year 6, in particular, were delighted to see her again, especially since they’ve been in regular contact with her over the last two years. They love her as a person as well as a writer and it has been amazing to have her as a friend of the school.”

Jennifer said: “I loved it! I’m so grateful for the engagement I’ve had with you and your class – it has meant so much.”