My hectic writing tour for August Book Week/Month has taken me across Sydney from Bankstown to Camden to Wahroonga to Rose Bay to Punchbowl to … everywhere.
I have spoken to 1000′s of young people and teachers. Their responses to my visits and talks leave me emotional and deeply touched.
Here are some of the words and thoughts of the kids:-
When Maisam asked you if you believed in ghosts, your response was just what he needed to hear. The cemetery scene really resonated with him as both his parents died in Afghanistan. I think he is comforted by the thought that they are watching over him and that he can talk to them at anytime, just like you do with your dad.
Once again, I thank you and 5th class thanks you too.
Mohammad told me he was a Muslim. He asked me -’What is your religion?’ I believe in God. ‘Do you believe Mohammad was a prophet? Yes, I believe he is. ‘Do you believe Jesus is a prophet?’ Yes, I believe he is. ‘Do you believe Moses is a prophet? Yes, I believe he is. All religions show us the pathway to good. We are all the same and seek to do good.
“Susanne Gervay, you are hilarious and you taught me an important lesson. Hand on my heart, I promise I will never bully anyone, anywhere. I mean that, so thank you. Say hello to Jack for me. I hope Nanna can visit us too now.”
