Novelist inspires pupils in write way
Ross returns to his old school to offer advice
A local author returned to his former high school last week following the publication of his first novel.
Ross Sayers, a local writer who has recently become a published author with his debut novel “Mary’s the Name” is a former pupil of Bannockburn High School and Braehead Primary School.
He visited Bannockburn High to meet with Advanced Higher English pupils to talk about his writing method and offer some advice on starting out in the literary world.
Initially set in Stirling, the fictional tale is told through the eyes of an eight-year-old girl who in the book is a pupil at Ross’ old school, Braehead Primary. Orphaned Mary lives with her grandpa but after he is mixed up in a robbery at the bookies where he works they flee to the Isle of Skye. Gradually Mary realises her grandpa is involved and the robbers are coming after him - and their money.
Ross said: “It was a real pleasure to visit my old high school, and chat to the Advanced Higher English class. I read from ‘Mary’s the Name’, and was delighted with their feedback. I’m always keen for new people to like wee Mary! We also discussed creative writing, which is part of their English course. I offered up some tips and tricks I use, which will hopefully help them in future.”
Bannockburn High head James McParland said: “This was a fantastic experience for our Advanced Higher pupils and the first of our events working with Ross. It was also great to welcome pupils from Braehead Primary School who also enjoyed a question and answer session with Ross.
“Being a former pupil of both schools, Ross demonstrates what can be achieved through hard work and commitment; we wish him well with his book.”
Stirling Council’s Education Convenor Alistair Berrill said: “I hope that this visit will be an inspiration, not just to the Advanced Higher English class, but the whole school. We all feel a real pride in the achievements of former pupils of our old schools.”
The official launch of the book was held in Waterstones, Stirling, last Thursday..