BODMIN BOOKWORM

Coming Soon.....

2009-11-05T14:52:00.004Z

At the Bodmin Bookworm we are busy preparing to launch a new countywide young person's writing and reading project called "Kernow Ink". We hope to launch/promote Kernow Ink at the new North Cornwall Children's Literature Festival. But we need your help!!!

The North Cornwall Children's Literature Festival will be held on the 15/16/17 February 2010 (during half term). There will be plenty of fun workshops, activities, performances, stalls and famous author visits.

So far the organisers are stuck: they have no name for the festival. PLEASE HELP!!

Please write to bodminbookworm@aol.com with any suggestions of what the festival could be called. If you're really creative you may also like to come up with a one line slogan or strap line that could be used on publicity material.

A little about Kernow Ink:
Kernow Ink will have a professionally designed fun and interactive website. Each person can set up their own club membership that will enable them to have a profile page (including no confidential personal info) that amongst other things will detail what they've been writing, reading and commenting on. Other web pages will include author tips & interviews, regular updates and the latest news including competitions. There will be specially tailored sections for different age groups and plenty of opportunity for engaging in a creative community. There is the chance for writers, authors, song writers, play/film/radio/comedy script writers, poets and keen bookworms to contribute.

Over the next few months there we will be more calls for help with the literature festival and Kernow Ink. We'll be needing creative and enthusiastic people to help with things like testing the new website out. So please watch this space. If you're not already signed up to the bodminbookworm email newsletter please send us an email asking to be signed up. It is the best way to keep in touch with the latest news, opportunities and future competitions.

During the development of Kernow Ink the Bodmin Bookworm is still open to publish your writing on any subject. Just email your writing, along with your age, year and school to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

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OCTOBER

2009-10-01T16:55:00.007+01:00

This October there is no set theme. You are free to write whatever inspires you.

But we'd like you to think creatively about writing.

On 16th October it is 'Everybody Writes Day'. This is a day when many schools have a day completely focused on fun writing activities. Maybe you could encourage your school to do the same. On the Everybody Writes website there are many examples of young people and schools finding new ways of writing.

Here are some ideas:

Try writing with something other than a pen or computer. For instance try writing with paint, string, quill, cut out newspaper words, chalk......
Try writing on something other than paper or computer. Examples could include pavement/playground chalk writing (but gain a teacher/parent's permission), fabric, tiles, toilet roll, flags.....

***Remember you can always send us a JPEG or GIF photo image of your finished writing project. Ask an adult for help if you're unsure how to do this.***

Consider that writing isn't just about creating stories and poems. It can be:

Instructions, signs or messages
Word art & collages
Songs
Films/Theatre/Radio scripts
Jokes
Poems, Limericks, Haiku
Journal/Diary
Letters
News reports
Reviews and lots more.......

Whatever you're inspired to write and create please share it with us by sending to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

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September: Roald Dahl

2009-09-01T12:01:00.020+01:00

Roald Dahl wrote many children’s stories and poems that have not only been published as books but also adapted into plays and films.

This month’s theme involves writing inspired by Roald Dahl.

To give you an idea read the following:
Roald Dahl’s children’s writing includes........

Funny stories & characters, including fabulous child heroes.
Gruesome detail – every horrible smell, sight and bad habits
Larger than life characters with big personalities & memorable physical descriptions
Frank honest storytelling: Dahl never holds back from telling the reader about scary or nasty things. He never talks down to children but instead treats them as the intelligent people they are.
Made up foods
Made up words
Inventions & recipes
Fantastical imaginative places, people & objects
Triumph: He championed the poor, victimised, bullied etc...
Friendship, loyalty and kindness
Brave and intelligent heroes on fabulous but difficult adventures that are often scary
Heroes that overcome personal disadvantages and nasty villains
Imaginative character names
Honest, frank, unflinching writing
Villains that hate & are cruel to children and animals. But who are taught a lesson in the end.

Some Examples:

Roald Dahl’s witches are not like in fairy tales. Instead they disguise themselves as lovely ladies with a secret passion for squelching children. The book’s introduction reads like a warning and the heroes are a boy and his grandmother who must save children from the High Witch’s devilish plan. This story is full of scary and gruesome descriptions and funny moments.

In many of Dahl’s stories the caregivers (e.g. parents or pet owners) are mean and horrible. George’s grandmother is cruel and disgusting. George tries to create a concoction to cure his Grandmother’s nastiness.

Matilda’s parents consist of a Dad described as a ‘Mean crooked crook’ and a stupid mother who thinks Matilda should watch more TV and read fewer books.

James lives with two mean aunts ‘Sponge’ and ‘Spiker’. James receives a magic bag from a mysterious man but drops it underneath their peach tree. Later a peach begins to grow to gigantic proportions and a whole adventure begins.

The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) is different to his fellow giants. The ‘Bloodbottler’ and ‘Fleshlumpeater’ giants are big bad giants who like to gobble up children. The BFG befriends orphan Sophie and introduces her to his world of imagination and magic. The BFG uses his own special words and eats/drinks strange things. His job is to catch dreams and blow them into children’s bedrooms. The BFG and Sophie are on a mission to save the world’s children from the evil giants.

In the Magic Finger the heroine finds that when she gets angry her magic finger can cause havoc. Disliking her neighbours love of hunting, in a temper she points her magic finger at them and they end up transformed into birds.

In Fantastic Mr Fox, Mr Fox outwits the nasty farmers ‘Boggis, Bunce & Bean’. There is great humour in the animal being cleverer than the farmers.

In ‘Revolting Rhymes’ Roald Dahl retells well known fairy tales in his own unique way so that we have Red Riding Hood pulling a pistol from her knickers and talking with an attitude never seen in the original telling. If you haven’t read these, whatever age you are, you must! I dare you not to be laughing out loud!!!

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There are many more Roald Dahl stories, books, plays and films to explore. Check out the EXTRA page for more ideas. Also for more info, fun and games visit www.roalddahlday.info & the other Roald Dahl sites linked from this one.

We look forward to reading your writing either about Roald Dahl and his writing or your own original ideas inspired by his love of witty imaginative stories.

Send your writing to Bodminbookworm@aol.com

AUGUST: "QUEST SEEKERS"

2009-08-01T12:07:00.016+01:00

What is a quest?
Dictionary definition: “a long or arduous search for something” (The New Oxford Dictionary of English 1998)

Who goes on a quest?

Real life quest seekers may include scientists, archaelogists and famous explorers like Christopher Columbus who discovered America.

There are also plenty of fictional quests in fantasy fiction books. Think of Harry Potter looking for the Horcruxes or Indiana Jones looking for the Holy Grail. Many myths and legends are also based on a quest.

Characters in books are often heroes like knights, super heroes, characters with special powers or ordinary people in an extraordinary situation.

What may a quest seeker be searching for?

A quest seeker may be trying to find a magical object, rescue a person, discover knowledge, a cure for an illness, a place or a creature.

The Summer Library Challenge has its own characters and story that you may like to use.

The Quest Seeker's characters:

(please note: the characters do not normally have blue faces but we're having a little technical difficulty. For clearer pictures visit the Quest Seeker's website & your local library)

Louis: Age 5. Likes - martial arts, animals, stories. Dislikes – animal cruelty.

Raj: Age 11. Likes – reading and extreme sports. Dislikes – bullies.

Belle: Age 10. Likes – making music and books. Dislikes – litter bugs.

Flic, the feisty fairy: Age 134 fairy years. Likes – rough and tumble and bright lights. Dislikes anything pink.

Magical creatures: Firebird, Drax the dragon & the Giant.

Gatekeeper: Cadmus: challenges quest seekers to bring back the golden book. On the Quest Seekers reading challenge we are told that Cadmus’ age is unknown, that he likes his cat Ferdinand & dislikes pickled onions.

There are 3 stages for the Quest Seekers to complete on their challenge to bring back the Golden Book. These are:

Firebird Rising

Mountain Mission

Dragon's Lair

Whether you want to use the Quest Seeker's characters & creatures or create your own consider the following:

Their... likes/dislikes; good/bad habits; strengths/weaknesses; friends & family; home; what they look like; age; dress sense etcetra....

If using the quest seeker's characters consider the names they've been given, look at their pictures & details on the Quest Seekers Website. For instance Cadmus is a gatekeeper - what do you think that being a gatekeeper may involve?

Magical creatures - what are their powers, how do they look, where do they live? Are they good/bad, dangerous or helpful?

Drax the dragon appears in the third stage Dragon's Lair. The Giant appears on the second stage - Mountain Mission & the first stage is the domain of the Firebird. Think about what being a giant, firebird or dragon may mean. Example: is your giant like the BFG or does he eat children? Does your dragon breathe fire or fly?

Whether you create your own quest story or follow the Quest Seeker's three stage challenge, consider the following:

What dangers and challenges will be faced?

Who and what will be met on the quest? Who will help you?

What is your quest? What do you seek?

The Quest Seeker's characters are trying to find the Golden Book. 'Golden' suggest that it may be precious, perhaps powerful. Describe the thing you seek. Where do you find it? Who does it belong to?

Think of the stages & their names. Example: Firebird rising - what does the word fire mean to you (warmth/danger/powerful/consuming)? What is a firebird? What will this stage look like? Mountain Mission - the word 'mountain' may suggest a difficult climb, a challenge, awesome scenery. Whereabouts does the giant appear on this stage. Dragon's Lair - what does Drax's lair look like? What does it smell like? What challenges will be faced on this final stage?

If creating your own quest try using all the five senses to describe the stages of your journey & decide what/who you will encounter at each stage.

· Visit http://www.questseekers.org.uk/ to learn more about the quest seekers.

· Have you read any books about Quests? If so tell us about them.

· Have you watched any films that are based on a quest? Write about them.

· If you are doing the library Quest Seekers reading challenge: what books are you reading? Why did you choose them? Write and tell us what you’re reading. Which books did you like or dislike and why? Who are your favourite characters and why?

Send all your writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com
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JULY: MUSIC

2009-07-01T04:16:00.023+01:00

July’s theme is ‘MUSIC’

Whether we're singing, dancing, listening to our MP3 tracks, watching a film or in a shop – music plays a large part in our everyday lives.

What kind of music do you like? Example: rock, blues, classical, pop etc.

Music can tell its own story and be used to enhance the story being told.

In a film music can help create a mood. Example: a romance will be enhanced with moving, romantic songs. It can also set a scene. Example: a film whose story is set in the 1960s will be enhanced by a soundtrack of music from that era. Music is also used in TV adverts, dramas and documentaries in similar ways.

Watch a film (or TV programme) & pay attention to the music - how does it affect your viewing of the film/programme?
Have you got a favourite movie soundtrack (e.g. Mamma Mia) or a TV theme tune (e.g. Eastenders theme tune) that you enjoy? Write and tell us why you like it.

Music’s role in telling a story is especially obvious in musical theatre.

Have you been to see any musicals? Examples: Mary Poppins, Sound of Music or Grease. Write and tell us what you liked/disliked.
Have you taken part in a school production that involved singing/music? Write about these experiences.

Are you part of a school choir, band, orchestra or musical theatre group?

Write about your experience of performing, review a concert you have attended or even write your own song/play.

Famous musicians, bands & singers have their own interesting stories to tell.

Try writing about: famous musicians in history such as Beethoven or The Beatles. Or write about your current favourite band/singer.
Use your imagination to write about a fictional musician/singer/band. Maybe you could imagine what it would be like if you were a famous musician.

Every country has a National Anthem – a song that is unique to their country. This anthem is often used at international sporting events and played on the winner’s podium.

The English national anthem starts like this:

God save our gracious Queen,

Long live our noble Queen,

God save the Queen!

Send her victorious,

Happy and glorious,

Long to reign over us;

God save the Queen!

You could try to write an anthem for your school or write a new football supporters song.

Writers often use music: to create an atmosphere in which to write, set a scene, for inspiration or to relax and get in the right mood. Some prefer to listen to music without lyrics and others are inspired by the lyrics of their favourite bands.

Try writing whilst listening to different songs/tunes. Try changing the sort of music and see how it affects your writing.

Song writers create lyrics that compliment a melody.

Why not try & write lyrics to a piece of music you like listening to. Email us your writing & let us know what music you were listening to whilst you wrote.
Maybe you could write a review of a song/melody. Consider the following: How does the music make you feel? What kind of rhythm does it have (fast/slow etc.)? Is the music sad or happy? What do you think of the lyrics? What story is being told?

The theme of ‘MUSIC’ can inspire many writing ideas. We look forward to reading your writing! Send all your music inspired writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

JUNE: OTHER WORLDS

2009-06-01T12:35:00.000+01:00

Our imagination can take us to other worlds anytime we decide to read a book, write a story or simply daydream.

Modern affordable telescopes mean that anyone can look through a telescope, look into space and examine other worlds.

Scientists & astronomers have for a long time been exploring space. They’ve mapped our universe full of other planetary worlds and are trying to explore further into space. Astronauts push the boundaries of space travel so that one day we may be able to travel to other worlds ourselves.

Scientists and government organisations search for alien life forms and other worlds that can support life.

Aliens and other worlds are the basis for many sci-fi/ fantasy books, films and TV programmes.

Fiction has created worlds in parallel universes as well as secret & hidden worlds that can be reached through our own.

Think of the wardrobe that leads to Narnia & the magical world of Harry Potter kept secret from muggles.

We also use the word ‘world’ in the sense of ‘the world of....’ Example: the world of music, the world of the rich and famous etc...... So in this way another world can be life outside of your personal experience. For instance the underwater world that exists out of sight under our seas and oceans.

Whether you want to write about the celebrity world, create a new alien world, imagine you’re an astronaut or write about your astronomy hobby – the theme of “other worlds” holds lots of possibilities.

What does the theme of ‘other worlds’ inspire you to write about?

We’d love to read your writing.

Please email your writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com
(Don’t forget to include your name, age, class/year & school)

MAY: CELEBRATIONS & FESTIVALS

2009-05-01T00:14:00.030+01:00

People like to celebrate things that are important to them. Some celebrations are individual celebrations e.g. Birthdays and others are shared by large social groups e.g. Christmas.
At the top of this page you will see a list of possible celebrations and festivals.

When writing about a festival or/and celebration you may like to consider the following:

Customs/Traditions/Rituals:

Many celebrations and festivals contain expected activities.

Examples:

At a wedding it is traditional for the bride to carry a bouquet of flowers and for the best man to give a speech at the wedding reception.
At a christening the priest will wet the baby with water from the font.
A big part of many celebrations involves people taking photographs or film of the events and people involved to act as a keepsake and record.

Food & drink:

Celebrations and festivals often involve certain foods and drinks.

Examples:

On a person’s Birthday it is usual to have a Birthday cake with candles to blow out.

At a Harvest Festival people often bring offerings of fruit, vegetables and bread.

At many celebrations people toast the honoured person/people with a glass of champagne.

Costumes & dress code:

Many celebrations and festivals require people to dress a certain way.

Examples:

At a Halloween party people dress up as ghosts, skeletons, witches and wizards.
At a wedding it is usual for all guests to be dressed smartly. The bride and bridesmaids will often have elaborate dresses and the groom will wear a suit. (Although this is not true for all weddings)
A historical festival may see everyone dress in historical costumes.
At a University graduation the graduates wear special caps and gowns.

Decorations:

Most celebrations and festivals use decorations.

Examples:

A Birthday party often has balloons & banners.
A May Day celebration may include flags and flowers. Posters may be put up to advertise the event.
At Christmas we decorate trees and rooms with colourful ornaments.
Certain symbols are often used in decorations such as a cross being used in Christian festivals.

Awards & competitions:

Some festivals and celebrations include competitions and the presentation of awards. A celebration of achievement may involve a ceremony where a medal, certificate or trophy is given.

Examples:

When a person retires from a job a party may be held and the person may be presented with an engraved tankard.
A student who has worked particularly hard at school may be awarded a certificate at an end of term party.
A flower festival may have a competition for the best flower arrangement.
A horticultural festival may include a prize for the largest vegetable in a category.

Music:

Music frequently plays a part in celebrations and festivals.

Examples:

At a Birthday party people will sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to the person whose Birthday it is.
At ‘obby ‘oss day in Padstow there are traditional songs.
At Christmas we sing Christmas songs and carols at school, church and community events.
All around the country, especially in the Summer, festivals are held to celebrate music. This music may be popular music (e.g. Glastonbury) or classical (e.g. proms in the park).
There may be local summer fetes in honour of summer that feature a brass band or school rock group.

Dance:

Dancing often plays a part in celebrations and festivals.

Examples:

May Day celebrations and festivals traditionally include dancing around a Maypole.
Parties will often include dancing to a disco or live music.
At a wedding it is customary for the bride and groom to have the first dance at their wedding reception.

Gifts & cards:

To commemorate a celebration gifts and greetings cards are sometimes given.

Examples:

At Christmas we give friends and family presents and cards.
If someone has moved into a new home they may hold a house warming celebration. In this case we may take them a ‘New Home’ card and perhaps a plant or bottle of wine.
It is common to receive chocolate eggs as an Easter gift.

Displays/Exhibitions/Processions:

Special displays and presentations are often organised to enhance a celebratory event.

Examples:

A town’s summer celebration may include a procession with floats. Each float may be decorated to reflect a certain theme e.g. the local playschool may decide to make their float look like a ship and then all dress up as pirates.
On New Year’s Eve part of the festivities often include fireworks.
A celebration of achievement may include a display of someone’s work or a film of their life.
Festivals sometimes include a marching band or dancers that will proceed through the streets of the town/city.

Entertainment:

Some celebrations and festivals include organised entertainment.

Examples:

A children’s party may include a clown or magician.
A festival may have a stall with a face painter or balloon artist to help keep children entertained.
A band or orchestra may entertain people at parties and events.
At a school celebration the drama club may perform a sketch.

Perhaps you may like to write about a special celebration you were part of.

Or maybe you’d like to imagine what your ideal Birthday celebration would include.

If you’re writing a story, perhaps it can be set at a festival or celebration.

Remember to consider all the sights, sounds, smells and tastes involved.

Did you eat too much Birthday cake or feel really hungry when you smelt the onions frying on the hotdog stand?

What were the feelings surrounding the celebrations? E.g. excitement or anxiety.
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We look forward to reading your writing.

Send your writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

APRIL: SPRING

2009-04-01T00:01:00.004+01:00

The season of Spring in the UK is generally thought to be during the months of March, April and May.
However, the ancient Celtic calendar states that Spring can begin early February and finish in early May.
In countries further south their Spring may be in different months. This is because countries like Australia have their warmer weather when we have our colder months.

Will your writing reflect the themes associated with an English Spring or take inspiration from other countries and cultures?

Spring is the season traditionally associated with celebrating the end of Winter and the new life that Spring brings.

You could write about how you feel about the Spring season. Are you glad to see the end of Winter? How do you feel when you see the first flowers appear? What are you favourite things about Spring? What things do you plan to do in the Easter holidays?

Spring brings warmer weather (hopefully!!!) and increased daylight hours (i.e. our days are lighter for longer). Although we have the term ‘April showers’ for a reason – in Cornwall we certainly get many rain showers in the Spring months!

You may like to write about Spring weather or base a story in this season.

During the Spring months new life is displayed wonderfully throughout nature.

In Spring we see: blossom, buds, daffodils, snowdrops, crocuses, tulips and green returning to trees and plants.

Certain animals are also associated with Spring: Easter chicks, bunny rabbits and new born lambs.

The natural world and animals provide many opportunities for writing. For example: you could write a poem about Spring flowers or a story about a rabbit’s adventures.

Food plays a central & essential part of our daily lives. There are various foods associated with Spring including: Chocolate eggs, decorated hard boiled eggs, Hot Cross Buns, Simnel cake, Spring vegetables (e.g. asparagus, broccoli) and Spring fruit (e.g. Rhubarb).

Although we have just had a monthly theme of food – perhaps you’d like to write something based on food associated with the Spring months. Example: a student who makes the largest chocolate Easter egg in the country.

Over the centuries people have celebrated Spring as the death of winter and have viewed it as the beginning of new life. This has been expressed through various rituals, celebrations and festivals.

There are various celebrations, festivals and events that occur in the Spring months. These include: Easter, Lent, Palm Sunday, Ascension, Good Friday, Maundy Thursday, April Fools, Mother’s Day, May Day, May pole dancing, Beltane, Spring Equinox, St David’s Day, St George’s Day, St Patrick’s Day.

There are also many festivals in Spring celebrated by various faiths including Buddhism, Sikh, Baha’i, Jewish and Hindu.

Perhaps you’d like to write about a Spring time celebration or event that you enjoy or have participated in. For example: maybe you participated in a St George’s day parade or gave your Mum an extra special Mother’s Day.

Maybe you’d like to research a Spring event that you’ve not experienced and write about what you’ve discovered. Example: you may like to research Celtic Spring celebrations.

Or write a story about someone attending a Spring celebration. For example: a story about a school who performs May pole dancing at their local May Day fair or a class that perform an Easter play.

The theme of ‘Spring’ can be interpreted in hundreds of ways.

When writing don’t forget to consider all five senses: sound, touch, sight, smell, taste. For example: the smell of daffodils and the taste of your chocolate Easter egg.

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Email all your ‘Spring’ themed writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com . Please also visit the EXTRA page and comment on the book recommendations. If you have any inspiration, hints or tips on writing on the ‘Spring’ theme then please email bodminbookworm@aol.com and your ideas could be published on the HIT page.

We look forward to reading your writing!

MARCH: "FOOD"

2009-03-01T01:00:00.002Z

This month's theme is "Food"

Food plays an obvious and essential part in our lives: nourishment and nutrition. It gives us energy and healthy food such as fruit give us essential nutrients for body and mind. There are also medicinal foods; for example herbs and vitamin rich foods that help us fight a cold may include lemons and Echinacea.

Food extremes could include: starvation if we don't eat anything; vomiting and weight gain if we eat too much; ill health or rotten teeth if we eat too much unhealthy foods.

When writing stories you could imagine what food aliens eat, create a new recipe or write of food that had magical properties.

But food can also be fun. We all have our favourite foods - perhaps like the girl in the picture we love ice-cream. There are also foods that we dislike: perhaps sprouts or liver. There are foods that we are encouraged to eat because they are healthy.

We can write about our food experiences using descriptions such as: sweet, sour, smooth, crunchy, delicious, bitter etc..... Our sight, smell and touch also play a part in our perception of food. We can also describe how they look, smell and feel. These senses can alert us to spoiled or poisonous food e.g. rotten eggs smell really pungent.

Sometimes, parents offer food as a reward. e.g. if you behave well or complete your homework you may be rewarded with chocolate buttons. But if dinner isn't finished then perhaps you aren't allowed desert.

Certain foods can be associated with mood. People talk about relaxing with a cup of tea and a biscuit. Or breakfast in bed may be comforting when we are ill or tired.

Food plays a part in many stories. 'The Gingerbread Man' is a famous tale where the main character is actually food. In 'Hansel and Gretel' the cottage is made from marzipan and sweets. The porridge in 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' plays a prominent part in the tale. Authors such as Roald Dahl have used food as a central theme. Consider his story 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'.

Writers use food in simile, metaphor and symbolism. Example: 'she was as sweet as sugar' OR 'went through it like a hot knife through butter'. They also use the five senses (described above) to describe their characters interaction with food. A character's stomach may rumble when they pass a bakery and smell freshly baked bread.

Food can play an important part in celebrations. For instance a Birthday cake is a much anticipated treat served at Birthday parties. Chocolate eggs are a popular gift at Easter. Christmas pudding is traditionally served at Christmas. Pumpkins are used at Halloween.

When thinking of story ideas think about the unusual. What if the Birthday cake had a hidden surprise within it? Or instead of receiving a chocolate egg your received a golden egg. Pose the 'what if' question e.g. what if no one remembered to get you a Birthday cake? What if in other worlds people celebrate by eating worms? What if your carved pumpkin came to life?

Or perhaps you have a real life story to tell - maybe a baking disaster. Or maybe you've tried to eat unusual or disgusting foods.

'Shrove Tuesday' has become so synonymous with pancakes that it is often referred to as 'Pancake Day'. It has become a celebration that involves cooking, flipping and eating pancakes. Perhaps you have a Pancake day tale to write about.

Your writing may be about a person who works in a food related occupation such as: a chef, waitress, chocolate maker, baker, school dinner lady, butcher, green grocer, dietitian. Or your story may be set in a place associated with food such as: a cafe, school dinner hall, restaurant, burger bar, at dinner table at home.

Food can also be associated with certain activities. Examples: eating popcorn at the cinema; ice cream at the beach; bonfire toffee on Fireworks nights; hotdogs at the fairground or sports arena.
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Regional and Cultural foods: There are food associated with countries and regions. For example: Cornwall is famous for pasties; Curry comes from India; the UK is known for its fish and chips; in France they eat frog's legs.
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Food in History: There are stories to be found throughout history where food has played a memorable part. For example: World War 2 food rationing; medieval banquets in Tudor times; potato famine in Ireland; the West's discovery of spices; Slavery on sugar plantations.
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There is lots of writing that can be done using 'Food' as a theme. We look forward to reading your 'Food' inspired writing. Please email your writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

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February: 'MAGIC'

2009-02-01T16:02:00.013Z

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The theme in February is 'MAGIC'.

Magic can be a supernatural fantastical power often attributed to witches and wizards or to magical objects. Magic can also refer to illusions and tricks performed by Magicians. However, there are many magic moments to be found in everyday life; in our relationships, in the wonder of the natural world and in the small miracles we encounter. There can be magic powers, objects, extraordinary moments, miracles, natural phenomenon & breathtaking scenery.

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One dictionary definition:
1. the supposed power to make things happen by using supernatural means
2. tricks done to entertain; conjuring
3. any mysterious or extraordinary quality or power
4. like magic very quickly
(Collins Essential English Dictionary)

Another definition: ‘exceptional skill or talent’ (The New Oxford Dictionary of English)

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Magical people may include: Witches, wizards, fairies, magicians, elves and ordinary people with extraordinary powers (e.g. Spiderman). Some of our human heroes (e.g. sport personalities) seem to perform as if by magic.

Magical creatures may include: dragons, unicorns, centaurs and then animals that have unusual powers (e.g. talking cat) and fictional magical creatures such as those in the Narnia stories or Lord of the Rings.

Magical objects may include: mythical objects such as King Arthur’s sword Excalibur; fairytale objects such as Jack’s magical beans or the talking mirror in Snow White; ordinary objects with magical properties such as the wardrobe in The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe or Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak; a magicians hat or wand.

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Another dictionary definition of magic is:

“a special and exciting quality that makes something seem different from ordinary things”

(Cambridge online dictionary)

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Magical Moments may include: the birth of a baby or baby animal; watching an exquisite sunset or a clear starry night; witnessing a person achieve great things (e.g. perform a very difficult violin solo or a sports person breaking a record); miracle healing; a momentous life event that made you feel blessed; visiting a place (e.g. cathedral, stone circle, cave etc.) that evokes powerful feelings, positive or negative.

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You could create a magic story, character, object and place. Alternatively you may wish to write about a magical experience you’ve had. You may want to write a song, poem or investigative article. Maybe you’d like to tell us about a book, film or TV programme that is appropriate to this theme.

Whatever type of writing you prefer - we look forward to reading your writing on the February theme of ‘Magic’. Send your writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

Don’t forget to check out the Extra & HIT pages – we’d love to read your hints, inspiration, tips, reviews, recommended reading etc.

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JANUARY: SURPRISE AND CHANGE

2009-01-06T13:10:00.011Z

The theme in January is "Surprise & Change". (Even BB Bookworm (above) has made a change in his appearance for the New Year theme.)

The New Year is often associated with change, new years resolutions, fresh starts, new beginnings and each year brings its surprises.
Whether change is planned, wanted or unwanted it is part of life. Change can be positive, negative or uncertain. Change can be a surprise - like a surprise visitor changing your life. Surprises can be pleasant & fun or unpleasant & frightening.
There are lots more ideas in the January blog post below and I'm sure you have plenty ideas and experiences of your own.
CHECK OUT THE BLOG POSTS (BELOW), RECOMMENDED READING (RIGHT) AND OUR OTHER PAGES FOR INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION (LINKS ON RIGHT).

The New Year is a time associated with change and new beginnings.

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People make New Year's Resolutions such as giving up a bad habit. They often look at making changes in their appearance, personal or work lives. For instance: if you look above this post you will see that BB Bookworm has had a change of hair style & outfit!! :-)

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Change can be planned, unplanned, wanted or unwanted. It can be pleasant, unpleasant, easy, difficult, large or small.

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The change can effect an individual person, a family, a town or the whole world.

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Sometimes change is dictated by necessity such as a moving home due to needing a new job in another area. Or a person may have a passion to travel or start a new career.

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Major life events such as marriage, birth and death alter our lives immensely.
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Often change comes as a surprise. For example: a lottery win, the arrival of a surprise visitor or finding out a surprising secret that will change our lives.

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Surprises come in varying forms. For example: Surprise parties, presents and holidays. Or a nasty shock and unpleasant outcome.

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Do you have personal experiences of surprise and change that you wish to share?

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Perhaps you want to create a fictional story, poem or song that involves a surprise or change.

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Or maybe you may have a book/film/theatre/TV review about a show/story that is about a surprise or change.

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Whatever the type of writing, we look forward to reading your ideas on the theme surprise and change.
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December: "Winter"

2008-12-01T14:39:00.011Z

DECEMBER: WINTER
THIS MONTH'S THEME IS "WINTER".

The December WINTER theme may inspire a variety of writing topics including:
Christmas: The Nativity story, Holly, Christmas trees, Poinsettias, presents, Carol singing, Father Christmas, elves, Lap Land, North Pole, Rudolph, baubles, tinsel, family gatherings, parties, Christmas cake/pudding, turkey dinner, roast chestnuts............Winter sports/activities: skiing, snowboarding, ice-hockey, ice skating, sledging, snow ball fights, making snowmen, splashing in puddles..........Weather/Settings/Descriptions: Snow, ice, rain, frost, fog, stormy nights, short days and long nights, muddy boots, wet clothes, winter landscapes (eg. Tree boughs heavy with snow & frost covered ground), the effects of wintery settings, winter colours (red, green, gold, silver, blue & white) and winter clothing (scarfs, gloves, mittens, coats, hats, boots, woolly jumpers), open fires...........................
I'M SURE YOU CAN THINK OF MANY MORE IDEAS!
CHECK OUT THE BLOG POSTS (BELOW), RECOMMENDED READING (RIGHT) AND OUR OTHER PAGES FOR INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION (LINKS ON RIGHT).

WINTER

Winter is a season that can conjure up images such as: log fires; snow; short days and long dark nights; hibernation; woolly jumpers; Christmas; cold hands and feet; frost covered surroundings; stormy weather and muddy boots. (You can find more ideas in the list above).

Winter is a season that invites writing full of detailed descriptions and atmospheric settings. The wintry weather can transform surroundings or places. For instance a spooky castle looks scarier in the stormy cold dark than it would in the bright warm sunshine. Similarly, a snow covered landscape can offer a nostalgic Christmas setting.

Try writing within a wintry setting. Consider how your characters, plot and action may be affected by the weather and long nights.

What do you like about winter? What do you dislike about winter? For instance you may like the fact Christmas is in winter and perhaps you like snuggling in front of a warm fire. However, you may dislike painfully cold fingers, shorter days and wet socks!

Certain activities are winter based such as sledging, skiing and snowball fights. You could write about winter activities and sports you or a fictional character enjoys/dislikes. Maybe an adventure or an accident happens whilst skiing.

If you celebrate Christmas then there is a multitude of things happening at this time of year: parties, carol singing, school Nativity play, Christmas fetes, church visits, crafts, present shopping/wrapping, decorating the house and tree.

In addition to writing stories, poems and jokes - you could write a review of a book that uses this winter theme or compose your own Christmas song. Your writing could take a variety of forms - the choice is yours!

We look forward to reading your "winter" writing.

NOVEMBER: "HISTORY, MYTHS & LEGENDS"

2008-11-01T12:53:00.008Z

'HISTORY, MYTHS AND LEGENDS'!

'History, Myths and Legends' is a wide theme that offers opportunity and inspiration to write about many different people, creatures, places, objects and events.

Examples are: PEOPLE: King Arthur, Robin Hood, Merlin, Queens & Kings (eg. Queen Victoria or Henry VIII), Florence Nightingale, Hercules, Aphrodite, Christopher Columbus, Romans, Tudors, Vikings, Guy Fawkes, Saints (eg. St Piran or Joan of Ark), Sporting Heroes, Musicians (eg. Mozart or the Beatles), Fairy tale characters, Inventors, Astronauts, Pirates, Miners, Aztecs, Egyptians, Cave men/women.......... CREATURES: Dragons, Elves, Fairies, Trolls, Medusa, Dinosaurs, Goblins, Griffins, Unicorns, Mermaids, Loch Ness Monster........ PLACES: Castles, Camelot, Stonehenge, Tower of London, Helman Tor, Churches, Cathedrals, Atlantis, Lanhydrock House, Fairyland, Space, Time machine, Sherwood Forest, Avalon, Caves, Pirate Ships, Long boats, Mine shafts, Pyramids.........OBJECTS: Portraits of famous people, Crown Jewels, Stone Celtic Crosses, Stained Glass Windows, Treasure chests, Diaries, Books, Dinosaur bones, Excalibur............EVENTS/TIMES: World Wars 1 and 2, Remembrance Sunday, Ice Age, Prehistoric, Discovery of America, Titanic disaster, Great Fire of London, First Man on the Moon, Space Exploration, Inventions, first aeroplane flight, Royal Coronations, Bonfire Night......................AND I am sure you can think of many more .................................
CHECK OUT THE BLOG POST (BELOW), RECOMMENDED READING (RIGHT) AND OUR OTHER PAGES FOR INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION (LINKS ON RIGHT).

"HISTORY, MYTHS & LEGENDS" is a theme with massive potential for inspirational writing. READ the examples ABOVE of people, creatures, places, objects and events to get you started.

We have thousands of years of history to gain ideas from. History is full of battles, wars, famous people, kings, queens, legends, heroes and villains.

There are hundreds of Myths and Legends full of stories about creatures such as dragons or mermaids and of heroes such as King Arthur or Florence Nightingale.

Castles, dungeons, prisons, churches and other ancient sites provide excellent backdrops for adventure, mystery, learning and action. Accounts of the Romans, Vikings and Egyptians offer descriptions full colour and action.

There are many ancient historical or mythical objects that can inspire writing such as King Arthur's sword 'Excalibur' and the Crown Jewels locked up safely in London. Similarly, stories are full of hunts for treasure chest and objects with magical powers.

You could write about your favourite time or person in History. Or you could write about your own personal history. Perhaps you could travel back in your own time machine.

If you like mythical creatures, legends or fairy tales then you could write your own story, reinvent an old story or write a review of a well known tale. Another idea would be to create your own creature, hero or monster.

What type of writing?? ANY!! For example: fiction (your own made up creation) or factual; poems; songs; stories; ;book reviews; plays or scripts; TV, film or theatre reviews; diary entries; personal accounts and character creations.

Send your writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com remembering to include your name, age, class and school. If you need any further help check out the 'HIT' 'Information' and 'Extra' pages.

OCTOBER - "ALL THINGS SCARY"

2008-09-30T14:50:00.008+01:00

The theme for October is 'All Things Scary'.

Below are questions and ideas to help inspire you:
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What do you find scary and why? Write and tell us.
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What does the character in your story find frightening?
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What scary event has happened to you? Write about your real life experience.
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Where have you visited that has terrified you? Describe the place and why it was frightening.
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What spooky books have you read or films have you watched? Have you been to the theatre or heard some music that was a little scary? Perhaps you could write us a review and tell us what you liked/disliked about them.
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Try writing a factual report. For example: information on spiders/sharks/school bullies; or perhaps details of a visit to somewhere a bit spooky like Bodmin Jail.
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In many stories characters have a phobia or fear that they must overcome in order to succeed in their quest. For instance Indiana Jones must overcome his fear of snakes because his adventures take him into old tombs & jungles that are naturally filled with creepy crawlies and snakes. Try writing a story where your character has to overcome their fear of something. Or tell us how you have faced one of your own fears.
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Try creating/designing a scary monster or character, considering: What does your character look like? What makes your character frightening? Are they a mean and nasty character? What does your character do? What does your character eat? ...........
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I am sure you can think of lots more ideas and things to write. Please share your ideas and writing by emailing them to bodminbookworm@aol.com .

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NEW ON ....HIT - Hint. Inspiration.Tips.

2008-09-29T15:01:00.010+01:00

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Check out the HIT (Hints Inspiration Tips) page where poet/writer/teacher Moira Andrew has shared one of her poems to help inspire us with our Holiday and All Things Scary writing themes.

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SEPTEMBER - HOLIDAYS

2008-09-16T11:44:00.007+01:00

SEPTEMBER 2008 – ‘HOLIDAYS’

Holidays offer a setting for: adventure; forming new friendships; travel; mystery; discovery; new experiences and fun!
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Of course holidays don’t always go to plan! Mishaps can include: lost luggage; swapped/wrong luggage; missing transport and breakdowns; family arguments; sibling rivalry; dangerous animals and hideous locations.
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When writing about a holiday (your own, fictional or fantasy) consider the following (answer questions either as yourself or as your fictional character):

· Which holiday is your favourite, and why? Which holiday did you dislike?
· What would be your dream or fantasy holiday? Where would you like to go? What would you like to do?
· Which foods remind you of holidays? What are your favourite holiday foods? What holiday food did you dislike?
· Holiday music – what music reminds you of your holidays? What music did you listen to? What music did you dance/sing to?
· Who did you meet on your holidays? Who did you meet that was interesting, strange or unusual? What friendships have you made on holiday?
· Where did you visit? What excursions did you go on? Which museums, historic sites or theme parks did you visit?
· Who was on holiday with you? Who would you like to go on holiday with?
· How did you get to your destination? What mode of transport did you use? Was it a long, short or eventful travel experience?
· What activities do you like to do on holiday?

Send your ‘Holiday’ themed writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com.

Visit the Bodmin Bookworm Information and HIT site for guidelines and inspiration.