What an amazing Book Week we have had! At Blackheath High School, we have encouraged students and staff alike to enjoy books and discover new authors with the whole week revolving around anything ‘booky’.

Monday saw girls ‘Balancing the books’ in the library. It was a test of skill, co-ordination and sheer determination. Girls battled against each other with Karoline winning a prize after balancing the most books. Tuesday was our visit from international bestselling author Holly Smale of ‘Geek Girl’ fame. Holly was extremely busy visiting Juniors to talk to Years 5 and 6, and then on to the Seniors. She happily signed copies of her books and posed for selfies with girls while fielding their varied questions. Some girls from the book groups and creative writing groups then took part in a writing workshop with Holly. She passed on all her tips that have made her stories so successful. Holly finished with a talk about her life. She enthralled the audience when speaking about growing up as well as what had inspired her to become a writer. Holly kindly acted as judge for our 'Design a Book Cover' competition. Her favourite design was by Izzy who re-designed 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' by Roald Dahl, which included a World Book Day bookmark.

Wednesday saw out annual Book Quiz in the library. 10 teams competed against each other answering questions on contemporary titles, film adaptations, authors, characters as well as picture rounds. The winners were ‘We forgot to name this team’ who showed an impressive knowledge of books achieving 38 out of 44!

The highlight of the week was our special assembly on Thursday where both staff and students dressed as their favourite fictional book characters. Girls were clad in an array of literary costumes including Miss Marple, Paddington Bear, Hamlet, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan and Burglar Bill to name just a few! The English department entertained the whole school with a short sketch based on the well-known writer Mary Shelley’s inspiration to write her Gothic novel Frankenstein, in celebration of its 200-year anniversary, which had everyone chuckling. The week ended with everyone receiving a £1 book token which can be redeemed in most bookshops to select either a special one-pound book (created especially for the day by various well-known authors) or used towards the cost of another book of their choice. Remember, reading and books are not just for a week, it is a lifelong commitment. Stay motivated and keep reading!