We were delighted to host a family workshop by award-winning author and illustrator Steve Smallman during half term.

Steve Smallman. Photo: Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky
Photo: Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky

Steve read us several of his stories, treating us to sneak peeks of two which are not yet published. His infectious rhythm and rhyme and very funny story lines soon had us all giggling!

Photo: Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky

Steve then gave us a masterclass in illustration, first drawing a scene packed with animals requested by members of the audience. It was at this point we learned some very surprising facts about armadillos!

Photo: Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky

Next up we all got a chance to draw, learning how with just tiny changes to eyebrows we could draw all different sorts of expression.

Photo: Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky

55 people attended this event, including some who had never visited the library before. Here’s a flavour of the feedback they gave on the event:

“Amusing and enthusing. Maybe an author/illustrator of the future was inspired today!”
“I think this event was fantastic and we should definitely do more events that are quite similar to this because it is a very fun time to have some fun!”
“First time we’ve been to the library, would come again with my daughter.”
“I HEART it. THumbs up emoji.”
“Excellent. 10/10. More days like to-day. Fab.”
“Fantastic and fun! Really interactive for the kids, lots of laughs and giggles. We would love more events like this please.”
“I want more like this event! 10/10”
“It was FANTASTIC!”
“I loved it so much.”

Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky

This sort of event, bringing both regular and new library users in, planned in conjunction with library staff, is exactly the sort of thing we want to focus FOLIO’s energies on in the future. We want to facilitate events which Sutton residents would like to attend and take part in, boosting the library along the way.

Photo: Louise Jackson / Under A Pewter Sky

Attendees at Steve’s events told us they’d like to see computer skills courses, art, music and drama workshops, and a comics club in the library. We’ve added all these suggestions to our planning – and if you’ve a suggestion to make, just get in touch, either by leaving a comment on this post or emailing chair@foliosuttoncoldfield.org.uk

An enormous thank you to Steve for delivering such an enjoyable workshop. Thank you too to Louise Jackson of Under A Pewter Sky for donating her time and photography skills for the day.

Armadillos and Eyebrows! A great family event with Steve Smallman

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