We recently interviewed Miss Bramley (and Miss Langley) to find out more about Book Club and the forthcoming Manchester Book Award 2008; an event that will be a permanent fixture in the Manchester Academy calendar.

1) Miss Bramley, what exactly is the book awards?

"The Manchester Book Award is a project which involves a group of students coming together to discuss 6 books that have been nominated for the Manchester Book Award. After 6 weeks, 12 students will be able attend an Awards ceremony where their favourite book was chosen. The authors will also be attending."

2) How did it start? (Quote from Miss Langley)

"It was started by a publishing company as they thought not enough students read in school or for fun."

3) What are the advantages of being involved in the book awards?

"Students get a chance to be able to meet up and read higher level books then discuss them with their peers. It is for years 7 - 9 so it is also a good way to make new friends. There is also a good chance that the 12 chosen students will be able to meet the authors of the books that were read."

4) Would it ever be possible to have an author attend and discuss one of the books with us?

"Possibly, I will research into this."

5) What has the response from the children been since the book club started?

"Very positive overall. They seem to be enjoying the books and enjoy sharing their opinions with each other. Most book have been rated 8, 9 and 10's so this is very good if they are enjoying the books."

6) What do you think makes a good book club?

"Regular attendees are always good as this makes it easier to communicate with the people you've met before. Also, a good selection of books makes it better as the children have a wider range of books to enjoy. It helps if the children have a passion for reading as this makes the atmosphere in the club seem better."

7) Will the book club continue after the competition is over?

"Yes. But there will be more books and more students so there is a chance for everyone to join in."

8) Would we be able to bring in books which we think are enjoyable for future meetings?

"Definitely! The students will be able to make suggestions and bring in their own books. Miss Langley and I want it to be the children's book club rather than ours so they get as much choice as we do."

9) If you could choose any author to come to school, who would it be and why?

"JK Rowling because I think she is just a great author who writes fantastic books which can engage any reader."

Charlotte, Manchester Academy