BEST-SELLING children’s author A.M.Dassu is hosting a free two-hour writing workshop for under-represented writers across Dudley next month.

A.M.Dassu’s first book ‘Boy, Everywhere’ was published in 2021 and tells the story of a privileged 13-year-old boy from Syria who is forced to leave everything he owns and knows behind when he becomes a refugee.

The novel went on to be chosen as ‘Best Children’s Book of the Year’ in six annual award competitions – including The Guardian, Booklist and Book Trust.

A.M.Dassu’s second novel Fight Back’ has been listed for 23 awards, including the 2023 Carnegie Medal.

‘All Stories’ workshops are designed to take would-be children’s authors on the next stage of their writing journey. Specifically aimed at participants who are of colour, disabled, neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, working class or socio-economically marginalised, the session will cover readership, concept, plot development and characterisation.

The session will take place on Tuesday December 10 from 11.30am to 1.30pm at Cradley Library which, along with all borough libraries, is run by not for profit social enterprise GLL

Sandra Francis, GLL library manager at Cradley, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this workshop and welcoming A.M.Dassu.

“She’s an internationally acclaimed author and this is a wonderful opportunity for underrepresented participants to learn from the very best.”

GLL has just launched the GLL Literary Foundation which will offer 20 author bursary placements valued at up to £4,000 each. Submissions are being sought from publishers representing authors across all genres of children’s literature, including picture books, early readers, chapter books, poetry, non-fiction, novels, graphic and verse novels.

Stephanie Rhoden, GLL partnership manager for Dudley Libraries and Archives, said: “Who knows, our ‘All Stories’ workshop at Cradley might lead to someone ultimately winning one of those valuable bursaries.

“It’s certainly a great place to start a children’s writing career.”