Children's author goes back to school

Children's author Katharine Quarmby visited her old primary school yesterday to read her new book to youngsters.The mother-of-two, who lives in London, read her illustrated children's book Fussy Freya to pupils at Harleston Primary School.

Children's author Katharine Quarmby visited her old primary school yesterday to read her new book to youngsters.

The mother-of-two, who lives in London, read her illustrated children's book Fussy Freya to pupils at Harleston Primary School.

Ms Quarmby, a BBC producer and journalist, attended the school as a child, and her mother Mary Quarmby taught there for many years.

She said she was inspired to write the book about a young girl who loses her appetite after her daughter Josie, now eight, became a fussy eater.

Ms Quarmby said: “Between the ages of three and four Josie suddenly became incredibly fussy after being an amazing eater. She is now a fantastic eater, but I thought I would like to write a fun book about teaching children a lesson they will never forget.”

In the book, the central character Freya has a good appetite until one day she tells her mother “Your dhal and rice are just not nice.” She spurns baked beans, sausages, and soon she's very thin indeed. Her mum, in despair, phones grandma Clare. “We'll sort her,” says grandma, “the fussy little beast.” Freya goes for a fabulous feast and a lesson she will never forget.

Ms Quarmby is looking to write another story about a character in the book called Ravi, who is based on her five-year-old son Raphael. She has also just completed a teen novel.

Speaking of her time at school in Harleston, she said: “I have very fond memories of my time here. It was a lovely, friendly school.”

Headteacher Roger Walsh said: “It is a privilege to have Katharine here with us. It is a delight to have a former pupil, who is an excellent role model, visiting us and passing on her love of books to the children.”

Fussy Freya is published by Frances Lincoln Children's Books.