Liverpool schoolchildren have been drawing fantasy pictures of where they live to win a signed copy of a popular novel that explores local history.
History enthusiast Brenda Larkin used her in-depth knowledge of Liverpool to write a fantasy book ‘The Whisperers’ for children based on the medieval times of West Derby.
She says youngsters are fascinated when learning that their hometown was built around a castle just 1000 years ago.
The former St Edwards teacher said: “What surprised me more than anything is that people didn’t know there was an actual castle. All the clues were there with the street names, but people don’t join the dots.”
The book reached top three in Amazon’s best sellers for children’s historical fiction following its release in July. It has not only attracted children, but many adults and students have also purchased a copy to understand the meaning behind some local street names such as The Armoury and Castle Keep.
Ms Larkin said: “I like to engage the reluctant reader. A happy reader will pick up a book and get on with it. It’s difficult to get a reluctant reader to get involved so I made the story quite short with accessible language and lots of cliff hangers to keep them engaged.”
Many local schools such as St Marys in West Derby have brought the book into history classes across a number of year groups.
Each of the chapters are based on surrounding areas such as: Sandfield, Blackmoor Moss and Spring Grove. The 72-page book was originally written by hand and then typed up to edit. A fictional fantasy, Ms Larkin has tried to keep it as factual as possible.
The 68-year-old grandmother is now working on another book based on the history of Gillmoss, Croxteth, Fazakerley and Norris Green.
If you want to take part in the ‘Half Term Giveaway’ and explore the ancient realms of your hometown then follow Brenda on Instagram @brendalarkinbooks.