Which is braver - telling the truth or taking part in a dare? Author Non Pratt put Manchester Academy students to the test when she visited the Moss Side school to discuss her new book. 

Called ‘Truth or Dare,’ the book is a powerful and moving novel about bravery from the Guardian’s ‘writer to watch,’ telling the story of two people, Claire Casey and Sef Malik, and asking the question, how far is too far when it comes to the people you love? 

During the visit, students from the academy’s Years 8 and 9 met with the author to explore the issues raised in the book and in particular, which is more brave - telling the truth or committing to enact a dare. 

The students then put their theories to the test, taking part in their own ‘truth or dare’ game, with activities ranging from pretending to be a horse to singing happy birthday whilst balancing books on their head! 

Finally, after listening intently to an extract from Non's book, those taking part went away with a signed copy of the book and the inspiration to write their own material. 

Manchester Academy Principal Andy Griffin commented on the visit: “Our students had a fantastic time, which was reflected in the enthusiastic comments made to Non during the workshop session. A massive ‘well done’ to our Year 8 and 9 students for being such fantastic role models and to Non for taking the time to visit the academy.”

Stacy Marlborough 
Office Manager and Marketing Officer