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Students were treated to an exciting and inspiring visit from acclaimed children’s author Sufiya Ahmed, who delivered a fascinating talk titled “Spies and Child Snatchers.”

Best known for her gripping historical fiction set during the Second World War, Sufiya has written an impressive 41 books. During her visit, she introduced students to her latest release, Escape from the Child Snatchers, and spoke in detail about her popular Rosie Raja series. These action-packed stories follow Rosie, a young girl who becomes a spy like her father, taking readers on thrilling adventures across wartime Europe and beyond.

Students were particularly interested to learn how the series travels across different locations, from Paris in the first book to Cairo in the second. The third instalment explores the secretive world of Bletchley Park, where Rosie encounters Alan Turing and uncovers the vital work of codebreakers during the war. The series’ success was recognised when it won the Brilliant Book Award 2024.

Sufiya also shared insights into her wider work, including her book about Noor Inayat Khan, a real-life spy whose bravery inspired readers around the world.

Beyond discussing her books, Sufiya offered valuable advice to aspiring writers. Her top tips included entering writing competitions, staying curious (“be nosey!”), and always editing work through multiple drafts. She encouraged students to read their writing aloud as a powerful way to improve their editing skills and refine their storytelling.

Inspired by authors such as Enid Blyton, Sufiya’s passion for storytelling was clear throughout the session. Her visit not only brought history to life but also motivated students to develop their own creativity and confidence as writers.