About the author: Peter J. Murray
Pete has always been a story-teller and a practical joker. Twenty five years in teaching gave Pete the ideal opportunity to entertain his pupils with stories of spooky characters and unusual happenings, which led to the creation of many of the characters in his books. Four years ago, Pete gave up his day job to become a full time author. He now visits over 200 schools a year, both in the UK and overseas, inspiring and enthusing children about reading, writing and being creative.
Pete self published his first book: Mokee Joe is Coming in 2003 and immediately won the prestigious Sheffield Children’s Book Award, voted for by 112 schools. The rest, as they say, is history.
Peter lives with his wife on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. He says that the hills and limestone scenery offer a constant source of relaxation and inspiration - in fact, they also provide the setting for Peter's sixth book, MOONWAILER, due out in May 2008 - look out for it!
Pete’s Mokee Joe presentations cause a huge stir wherever he goes. Teachers are often a little sceptical about whether Peter can hold the attention of hundreds of kids over a two-hour period. Once the visit is over, however, even the most doubting of teachers become fans for life. Don’t take our word for it. Click here for a sample of the many appreciative letters Pete has received.
Every week, Peter is swamped with poems, letters, drawings and stories from the children at the schools he has visited. Click here to see a very small selection of the work he has received.
We all know as teachers that children are the most honest of critics … they tell it as it is! Click here to read comments & feedback from the kids.
Just in case you are not familiar with Peter’s work, we have included the opening chapters to each of the three Mokee Joe books. The books are fast paced, exciting, and appeal to all ability levels. Click here to download.
I’m sure that you would love to see Peter in action at one of his presentations. Click here for a link to the videos on his website.
