Each child attending the performance will receive a FREE copy of The Suitcase to take home and keep!
How did it go?
The final performance of 2021's Children's Bookshow programme was a triumph! We were delighted to welcome author and illustrator Chris Naylor-Ballesteros to the French Institute in London for an hour of live drawing, stories, questions and inspiring tips. No one would have guessed that this was Chris's first time on stage as the young audience were gripped throughout.
Chris showed the children how you can use simple everyday objects - such as a carrot and a potato - to make characters for a story, by giving them an expressive face, arms and legs! Chris used a see-through piece of acetate and a marker pen to tell the story live, rubbing out the expressions with a cloth as the narrative moved on. It was both funny and inspiring!
Chris read his book Out of Nowhere which is illustrated using just coloured pencils, and after giving a masterclass in facial expressions he finished by reading his wonderful, moving book The Suitcase. Every child in the audience went home clutching this classic picture book to their chests grinning from ear to ear.
Thanks to all who made this year's programme of events so wonderful. See you in 2022!
Chris Naylor-Ballesteros Workshop
Chris Naylor Ballesteros delighted children in 4 workshops in London schools. Talking about the themes and characters in his picture book The Suitcase he asked children to draw what they would take in their suitcase if they had to leave home. Children loved drawing along with him and learning how to draw his characters.
Did you go to this performance or attend one of the related workshops? Send us your photos and feedback to be featured on this page
- Venue:
- Institut Français, 17 Queensberry Place, London SW7 2DT
- Date:
- Thursday 18th November
- Time:
- 11:00 am
- Duration:
- Approx. 1 hour
- Age range:
- Years 1, 2 and 3
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Chris Naylor-Ballesteros
Chris Naylor-Ballesteros is originally from Bradford and studied illustration and graphic design at Bradford College of Art. When his children were small he realised he loved the picture books he read to them, and decided to make his own. He lives in France.
Praise for The Suitcase
This beautifully illustrated and wise, gentle tale of tolerance and kindness for fellow humans resonates deeply. I hope all parents share The Suitcase with their children.
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