BRIGHT young book lovers got tips on how to write their own novels from a seasoned pro.
Dozens of youngsters from schools across the county attended a young writer's day at Cheltenham College Junior School as part of the town's literature festival.
Acclaimed children's author Vivian French led three workshops, teaching pupils to explore new and unexpected ways of creating characters and helping them to plan gothic stories with a twist.
Vivian, who has written more than 200 books, is known for her Tiara Club series and the comic fantasy series Tales from the Five Kingdoms.
And she drew on her experience to show the budding novelists how to translate their weird and wonderful ideas into a gripping read.
Noll Jenkins, acting head teacher of Cheltenham College Junior School said it was a great way for the youngsters to learn about the art of writing novels.
"This was a wonderful opportunity for children to let their imaginations run wild in a fun and exciting manner," he said.
"Not only did it give them a valuable insight into the world of fictional writing but it taught them how to channel their own ideas into words."
The event was open to Year Five and Six pupils from primary and prep schools across Gloucestershire.
More than 30 children attended the event including pupils from Bisley Blue Coat School, Bourton-on-the-Water primary school, Oakridge Parochial School, Rose Hill, Westonbirt, St Gregory the Great and Cheltenham College Junior.
The day took place as part of Cheltenham Literature Festival's education programme.
