On Tuesday 7th of October, 5th and 6th class kids from Ms. Quinlan’s class went to the library for a creative writing workshop in Ashbourne Library. In the workshop we learned about creating characters, problems, speech mannerisms and body language among other things.

The workshop was given by Alan Early. Alan Early was born in Leitrim, Ireland and now lives in Dublin, in Ranelagh. He studied in the National Film School, Dun Laoghaire. Upon graduation in 2008, he co-founded Annville Films. From an early age he would write and illustrate short stories about Banshees and ghost animals and whatever else struck his imagination. His first attempt at writing a novel was while he was still at school and was about, amongst other things, a telepathic fish.
When he was about ten, he visited Dublinia, a recreated Viking village and so began an interest in Viking lore that inspired the critically acclaimed ‘Father of Lies’ trilogy. His first book in the series, ‘Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent’ was released in 2011. He is currently working on the third book in the series, ‘Arthur Quinn and Hell’s Keeper’ as well as a few other ‘top secret’ projects. Alan also answered any questions we had.

It was a fun way to spend the afternoon!