Children’s Laureate visits Hazelwood College

The event was organised by Booktrust NI.

Malorie was announced as the Children’s Laureate for 2013-2015 in June 2013.

She primarily writes literature and television drama for children and young adults. She has used science fiction to explore social and ethical issues.

Her critically-acclaimed “Noughts and Crosses” series uses the setting of a fictional dystopia to explore racism.

Year eight students at Hazelwood College have been reading Malorie’s novels, ‘Thief’ and ‘Hostage’ during their library reading groups and A-level English Literature students have been reading her latest novel ‘Nobel Conflict’.

Hazelwood librarian Jackie Braun said: “We are delighted to have such a well-respected author as Malorie Blackman visit the college.

“Our students have been very excited about her visit and thoroughly enjoyed the question and answer session.”

Speaking ahead of her visit, Malorie spoke of her excitement at taking part in the tour.

“As a lover of poems, graphic novels and all kinds of stories, I’m so thrilled to be taking part in the Northern Ireland Stories Tour.

“I’m looking forward to sharing my love of books and reading for pleasure with as many children and young people as possible,” she said.

Malorie Blackman’s work has won more than 15 awards and has been translated into 15 languages.