One of the most popular authors to ever visit CLV is Newcastle-born Malcolm Duffy.
His Gateshead-based book, Me Mam. Me Dad. Me always proves hugely popular with y9 students with some students declaring it the best book they’ve ever read! We were delighted when Malcolm asked to return to the school to tell us more about his new book, Seven Million Sunflowers, and to share his journey to becoming a published author.
A born and bred Geordie, Malcolm passed a law degree and worked as an advertising copywriter in London for companies such as Volvo, Waitrose and Lidl before becoming Creative Director of Comic Relief, creating campaigns for Red Nose Day and Sport Relief.
His new book, Seven Million Sunflowers, tells the story of 15 year old Kateryno who comes to live in England with her mother and brother when their apartment in Ukraine is struck by a missile following the invasion of the Russian army. The book is inspired by Malcolm’s own experience of hosting a Ukrainian family and he was able to share some of the issues facing refugees with our students.
Feedback on the visit from both staff and students has been overwhelmingly positive. Malcolm’s next book is set back in his native North East – we can’t wait to read it and to welcome him back next year to find out more!