Pupils at Stretton Academy in Coventry were treated to a magical and educational experience this week as they played host to a world-record-breaking storyteller. Chip Colquhoun, a renowned children’s author and the founder of independent publisher Epic Tales, visited the school to share his passion for literature and ignite a love of reading among the student body.
The visit was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Coventry-based Deeley Group. As part of their contribution to the school, the firm gifted the academy 30 copies of Colquhoun’s latest children’s book, The Bestest Story in the World Ever!, alongside two copies of his instructional guide, All the Better to Read You With: Stories & Lessons to Inspire Reading for Pleasure.
Colquhoun is no stranger to monumental feats in the world of literature. Earlier this year, he was a pivotal participant in the Marrakech International Storytelling Festival, which saw a team of performers secure a Guinness World Record for a continuous storytelling session lasting more than 80 hours. Bringing that same energy to the classrooms of Stretton Academy, he engaged the children with a session designed to do far more than just entertain.
Epic Tales, the publishing house founded by Colquhoun, is dedicated to bridging the gap between storytelling and literacy. By combining imaginative narratives with practical activities, the organization aims to move children beyond the curriculum and inspire a genuine, lifelong passion for books.
Reflecting on the impact of the visit, Colquhoun expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Deeley Group. “This wonderful gift from Deeley Group could truly transform some children’s lives,” he said.
Drawing from his extensive experience, Colquhoun highlighted the profound effect that storytelling can have on child development. He noted that the power of narrative often acts as a catalyst for communication, helping shy or reluctant students find their voices.
“I’ve seen storytelling help hundreds of young people become confident communicators,” Colquhoun added. “I have even witnessed children go from being non-verbal to becoming confident public speakers. In fact, the boy who inspired the main character of my latest book, The Bestest Story in the World Ever!, is a testament to that journey.”
Staff at Stretton Academy believe the visit and the new book donations will provide a significant boost to their literacy programs. By fostering an environment where reading is celebrated as a pleasure rather than a chore, the school hopes to build lasting confidence in its pupils. With these new resources now in the hands of the students, the legacy of Colquhoun’s visit is expected to influence the classroom experience long after the final story was told.
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