US author surprises Devon schoolgirl

Ten year-old Holli Williams wasn’t much of a reader – in fact – she wasn’t enjoying reading at all, until she visited her school library and discovered a book by Michael Dahl – and in that moment, she became hooked on reading.

Holli wrote a letter to Michael and her teacher emailed it to him in Minnesota in the United States, where he lives.

Michael received the letter and was so inspired by Holli’s enthusiasm and love of reading that he decided to make a special trip to meet her and find out more about the great reading initiatives going on at Marpool Primary School, Exmouth.

Michael is excited to have this opportunity to meet such an enthusiastic reader: "I receive so many letters from children, librarians and teachers around the world, but this letter had something special about it.

"It told a story of a girl’s struggle to read and how she had overcome this to discover a true love of reading.

"I wanted to meet Holli to tell her that her story is an inspiration – for other children; for librarians; and for me, as a children’s author, knowing that my books are read and enjoyed by children all around the world."

Many of the children at the school have read and enjoy Michael Dahl’s books, so they were so excited when Michael made a surprise appearance at school today.

Holli was completely taken by surprise. ‘I was just so happy and proud that Michael Dahl had come all the way from America to meet me!”

Michael gave Holli some signed books to treasure.

Holli said: "I can’t wait to read them! I’m not going to be able to stop reading them!"

Marpool Primary School’s, Head Teacher, Rachel Pattison believes that today’s surprise will be something the children will remember in the months and years to come.

She said: "For the children to meet an internationally renowned author is an opportunity not to be underestimated; the excitement and enthusiasm that this visit has generated can't be quantified; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that the children, and in particular Holli, will never forget. We hope that this visit will inspire others to read too."

Helen Freeman, Publisher at Raintree, who publish Michael Dah’s books believes that it’s the role of publishers to help children discover great books.

Helen said: "Holli’s story of how she discovered her love of reading is wonderful. We fully support children having access to a wide range of books and authors whether they discover them at home, at school, in the library or by swapping favourite reads with friends.

"Whether a child is just beginning to read or they are already confident; whether they love characters such as Batman and Scooby Doo, or they enjoy picture books and fairytales; action-packed graphic novels or non-fiction books, rich with facts, photos and information – we consider it our job to develop quality books with strong appeal, whatever a child’s interests or reading ability.

"We want children to learn to read and then keep on reading – just like Holli."