On Thursday 10 February, the Year 6 boys and girls travelled to Coworth Flexlands in Guildford for the southern heat of Story Slam 2022; a United Learning competition aimed at finding and nurturing our most talented young writers. The morning was spent in a workshop run by the brilliant Sarah Holding, author of several fictional books dealing with climate change. The boys and girls were motivated by her energy and inspirational ideas. After a fabulous lunch and playtime, it was time for the main event.
Lamine’s story, ‘The Workers of Pennsylvania’, had been chosen as the Boys’ Prep entry and the room fell quiet as he took to the stage. You could hear a pin drop as his words cast a spell over the audience, telling the story of Stonly, a man struggling to find meaning in his life as he endured monotonous days working in a factory. It was a story rich with imagery and deep in meaning. Well done, Lamine, for winning the best line in a story: “Crimson red veins grow from it like vines.”
The Girls’ Prep entry by Sofia was an exciting tale with an unexpected twist. A young girl whose parents were lost in space was being cared for by her mild-mannered Granny who appeared to spend most her time in the garden or cooking porridge. As the story picked up pace, Sofia revealed that Granny was actually training to be an astronaut and had been hiding a space craft in the garden shed. Her mission: to rescue the parents! The judges praised Sofia for her application of magical realism and the use of fantastical elements in real-world situations.
Thanks to our hosts at Coworth Flexands and to Sarah for a wonderful day.
