Book Week Comes Early With Guest Speaker Michael Speechley
We kicked off Book Week a little early with local guest author, Michael Speechley. Michael comfortably spoke to the Years 5 and 6 students about his first published book, The All New Must Have Orange 430. The book explores the topical themes of consumerism and the environment. Michael spoke of his life as a graphic designer and a high school teacher before coming up with the idea for his first picture book. As he read The All New Must Have Orange 430 to the girls, he explained the graphics he used on each page. Students were encouraged to ask questions throughout the presentation, which were enthusiastically answered by Michael.
Michael provided great insight into the world of publishing and how to captivate readers with detailed pictures and hidden messages. The fortunate students that came to listen were not only attentive listeners but enthusiastic participants.
His second published picture book The Gift deals with loss, kindness, and the joy of giving. Students can come to the library to borrow both of his books anytime.
Eloise Naysmith said, “I love how he made a graphic out of the word Shark. He wrote the word shark in the shape of a shark, so cool”. While Charlotte Yeo said, “I just loved how funny he was”.
Sophia Radica liked “how he told us where he started off in life and how he got to the point where he is today. It was really interesting”.
“In Michael’s story he drew our attention to some of the funny details in the pictures, such as how ‘the batteries were free of charge’ giving the picture a double meaning,” said Rose McAuslane.
- Featured, Learning4Life
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.