First Book Signing

I've just had my first book signing event at Methven's Bookshop in Worthing, and it went so well that I sold 21 books and have been invited to a speaking event. I was very nervous from the moment I woke up that morning, but I know that whenever I feel fear about doing something, it means I am going to grow and learn in some way. My fears came from the fact that I had decided I would not only sit behind the desk to sign, but approach customers on the shop floor too, tell them about the book, and persuade them to buy a copy. I had previously met another author, Prof David Alric, who has written a children's story "The Promised One", published by Faber and Faber, and watched him on the shop floor at his signing. His method was truly inspirational, and I believe he has sold as many as 70 copies of his book at one signing alone - he's a dream come true for the bookshops! What book on any of their shelves has sold as many as 70, or even 21, copies in one day?

I enjoyed the event not only because it was a success, but I got to talk to so many people, and share experiences and advice with other parents. One thing I learnt was not to judge people. One guy, who's single, lives alone and has no children, bought a book because he thought his neighbours could do with it! He thought they could do with some peace and love in their household, judging by the noise he was hearing! I think he's going to discreetly push it through the letterbox.

Here's to more book signings and meeting wonderful, inspirational, entertaining people!

Tories to make failing pupils stay at school

I really could not believe what I read in the Daily Mail today. Apparently, children who fail maths and reading tests will be forced to spend an extra year at primary school under new legislation. The reforms are designed to make sure no pupil starts secondary school without a basic grasp of the 'Three Rs'.

Is this really going to help the problem? Surely it will only serve to single out and hi-light these pupils. It won't help them at all. The Government really do not have children's interests at heart. If the Government really cared, they would put resources into giving these pupils the help and attention necessary to help them to succeed before it is too late.

I wonder what is going on in the education system? The other day I discovered my 11 year old had not grasped the use of apostrophes in her english writing. Just three minutes covering it one sunday morning at the kitchen table with her dad, had her confidently and correctly using apostrophes. Not just her, but her 7 year old sister too, who proudly told me "I can use a-pot-a-pies".