Pick a book character who’s an adult. Now describe what they might have been like as a toddler.
New to freewriting? Check out our online guide.
Podcast: Book Wandering with Anna James
In the realm of children’s literature, certain authors create captivating worlds that inspire young readers to explore, imagine, and grow. One such author is Anna James, the British writer and journalist based in North London, known for her middle-grade novels series, “Pages and Co.”
Today on the Brave Writer podcast, we’re discussing:
- her writing process,
- the inspiration behind her series,
- and the value of getting lost in the worlds of books.
Also, don’t forget to hop over to the Brave Writer store to pick up the Arrow that goes with her book “Pages & Co.: The Book Wanderers” (the Arrow is our literature handbook that teaches grammar and literature to your 11-12 year olds!).
Show Notes
The Journey into Fiction
Anna’s journey into fiction was as magical as the worlds she weaves. Her love for books and reading stemmed from her childhood adventures, often featuring her and her sister as characters in Enid Blyton’s “Famous Five” adventures. This idea of being part of a story was the seed that blossomed into the concept of “book wandering” in her “Pages & Co.” series.
Despite her passion for literature, Anna chose to study history at university to preserve her pure love for reading. Initially, she aspired to be a librarian, even planning to do a master’s in archives. However, fate led her to switch her path at the last moment.
The Magic of Book Wandering
The “Pages & Co.” series, expected to have its sixth installment later in the year in the UK and next year in the US, introduces readers to Tilly, a young girl living in a bookshop who discovers her ability to travel inside books and stories. This concept of “book wandering” is a testament to Anna’s belief in the magic of imagination, especially for young people imagining their own lives and those of others.
The series, which was envisioned as a standalone book, focused on characters entering the pages of books. The story eventually expanded into six books, introducing new characters and story arcs along the way.
An Instinctive Writing Process
Anna describes herself as a “pantser,” writing by the seat of her pants without an outline. Her first drafts flow from start to finish without looking back, and she trusts her instincts as a writer, thanks to her exposure to a multitude of stories. Despite significant plot shifts and character changes, her first drafts always end up around the same word count due to her innate sense of pacing.
Her writing process also reflects her love for immersive theater, where the audience becomes part of the story. Anna started writing about it after her book series began coming out, seeing a connection between immersive theater and book wandering.
The Enchanting Setting
The setting of the “Pages & Co.” series was inspired by Anna’s experiences at Waterstones, a British bookstore in Newcastle, where she discovered many of her favorite books as a child. The visual impact of seeing many books together symbolizes the richness of human thought and ideas, a sentiment lost in the digital age.
The Journey of Identity
Anna emphasizes the importance of young people finding their identity and standing up for their beliefs. Through her character, Tilly, she explores the process of self-discovery and self-definition, even when it means going against the expectations of loved ones. Anna believes in the importance of young people asserting themselves, learning from their mistakes, and navigating their own paths.
Upcoming Adventures
Anna is currently working on a new series called the “Weather-Wide Chronicles,” set to be published in the UK in the upcoming autumn. She is also planning an “Alice in Wonderland” re-imagining, following Alice’s granddaughter, Alyce.
Anna James’ work is a testament to the power of imagination and the beauty of discovering oneself through the pages of a book. Her series not only provides young readers with a captivating journey but also encourages them to chart their own paths, just like Tilly, setting their own compass in the world.
Resources
- Anna James website: anna-james.com
- Arrow for Pages & Co: https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/literature-singles/products/pages-co-the-bookwanderers
- It’s that time of year: We’re announcing the new book list for the coming school year! Register for the Book Reveal June 1 & 2 webinars!
- Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to help your young writer finish the school year strong!
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Go to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Learn As You Go
There’s no expiration date on an education.
Lifelong learning means you keep learning for your entire life.
Remember: you don’t have to squeeze it all in by 18. Leave some treasures to be discovered in adulthood.
I didn’t read Jane Austen until my 30s. What a treat! Not ruined by some English class before I was ready to enjoy her wit and insight.
The world has so much beauty and endless riches.
Your job as your children’s educational guide is to make some introductions and whet their appetites.
College is not only valuable at 18. In fact, it can be well argued that starting university at 20 or later is more beneficial to lots of kids (if at all)!
Learn as you go.
Take the byways.
Trust the process.
There are no educational emergencies. One day, one book, one idea, one experience at a time.
You’re never too late. You’re right on time.
This post is originally from Instagram and @juliebravewriter is my account there so come follow along for more conversations like this one!
Friday Freewrite: Largest to Smallest
Stop! Look around. Write down the largest thing you see. Now list the next largest then the next largest until you record the smallest thing you see.
Another option (or you could do both!): list the things you hear. Jot down the loudest noise then the next loudest until you write down the quietest sound.
New to freewriting? Check out our online guide.
Podcast: An Honest Conversation about Unschooling
Are you a homeschooling parent who has heard about unschooling but isn’t quite sure what it means, or whether it’s right for your family?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Unschooling is a flexible and learner-centered approach to education that encourages:
- curiosity,
- self-direction,
- and personal growth.
In this Brave Writer podcast, we’ll dive into the world of unschooling and share some valuable insights, experiences, and advice to help you navigate this alternative approach to learning.
Show Notes
Understanding the Principles of Unschooling
First, let’s start by understanding the principles of unschooling. Unschooling is not anti-education but rather an alternative approach to learning that follows a child’s interests and allows them to learn at their own pace.
The philosophy, coined by educator John Holt, supports a learner-centered approach that encourages curiosity and personal growth. It’s important to differentiate between unschooling and radical unschooling, with the latter involving complete relinquishment of control and structure in a child’s life, including non-academic aspects like bedtimes and mealtimes.
Utilizing Resources and Methods in an Unschooling Environment
Unschooling doesn’t mean you need to shut the door on traditional educational resources. Instead, you can make use of tutors, classes, field trips, workbooks, and textbooks, alongside allowing your child to pursue their interests and passions. The key is to create a rich and flexible learning environment that:
- encourages exploration
- and supports your child’s unique learning style.
Embracing Change and Trusting the Process
One of the challenges of unschooling is letting go of expectations and recognizing that children’s interests and passions may change over time. It’s essential to remember that the skills and experiences your child gains through unschooling contribute to the “compost” of their personal development, rather than defining them by specific roles or accomplishments. Embrace the uncertainty and trust in the process, as this will ultimately help your child grow into a well-rounded and adaptable individual.
Unschooling offers a unique and flexible approach to education that can be tailored to suit the needs and interests of each child. It’s important to be open to change and not be bound by a specific educational philosophy or label.
Whether you decide to fully embrace unschooling or simply incorporate some of its principles into your homeschooling journey, remember that the ultimate goal is to support your child’s curiosity, growth, and individuality. Don’t be afraid to explore and adapt because, after all, learning is a lifelong adventure.
Resources
- It’s that time of year: We’re announcing the new book list for the coming school year! Save the dates, June 1st and 2nd, and sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop at bravewriter.com/news.
- Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to help your young writer finish the school year strong!
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Go to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
