Michael Morpugo

Me too. Only on iPad. Don't get it on desktop, but can't bring that to the sofa.

It’s driving me batty too Atqui why can’t HQ get it sorted ?

Would love to continue this but the blooming privacy thing keeps coming up

Re formal schooling - I’m not usually a one for links but I think this what Michael Morpurgo was referring to
www.theguardian.com/education/2016/sep/20/grammar-schools-play-europe-top-education-system-finland-daycare

I read Kensuke's Kingdom to the GCs at bedtime over the summer holidays - they loved it and so did I. Yes, I like the idea of a GN Michael Morpurgo book club!

I don't always think much of today's one-hit -wonder writers.

We could start a Michael Morpurgo book club on GN. Better than some of the crap....

Adolphus Tips sounds really good.

I seems he's had quite a few books our since my son was that age. Unsurprisingly! I can feel some nice little reads coming up. I quite like good children's books.

Yes, I caught that bit atqui. Not sure to be honest. Seven does seem a bit late.

I haven’t come across that one Gonegirl so thank you . I know he has a brand new book out as DGD2 has it on her “most wished for” list but I note this one came out in 2015 . Will see if we can get it in paperback as she doesn’t have a kindle . Oh I have just thought of a brilliant Xmas idea ? Our joint favourites are “The wreck of the Zanzibar “ and “Kensukes kingdom” ( excuse spelling ) . My DGD is animal mad ( especially horses) so loves all the animal themed books .

His talk about children was so good . Especially for me his take on children not starting formal education until 7

Yes, I enjoyed his books with my son Gillybob. Still got most of them. In fact, I just just had a quick look on Amazon and I have downloaded this one to my Kindle to read now!

They broadcast his talk about the kids on Radio 4 this morning Luckygirl. I only caught the end of it but you can most likely get it on Sounds. I shall have a listen.

I love MM's books and his essay is a well-written piece, as you might expect. However, I am with Gonegirl, I feel no need to philosophise about ageing - I just get on with living, enjoying all the things I do (some of which I never had the opportunity or confidence to do when I was younger). No point in agonising over the things I can't do.

My DGD2 (age 11) adores MM . She (and I) have read everything ( suitable) that he has ever written .
She met him last year after entering a schools competition.

Born '43. He won't be doing it much longer!

Well, I won't be walking head down, hands behind back, Beethoven style, any time soon. But don't let me stop you.

I won't be running up God knows how many flights of stairs, and then following it up with four mile daily walks. Gone are the days I'm afraid. Although I am sure there are many 78 year olds on here who can.

Now, five or six years ago, would have thought nothing of it.

How old is Michael Morpurgo anyway?

I believe it is Morpurgo who is due to give a talk about his concern about the stress that children are being put under.

Thankyou Lully and Corner, I would have missed this otherwise.
You can be miserable if you like Gone I prefer to be inspired.

Thank you so much for that LullyDully and cornergran. I particulary liked his thoughts on Judith Kerr and DGS is a great fan of her books - The Tiger Who Came To Tea is a favourite and we were lucky enought to see a performance of it in our local theatre. I do hope MM continues into old age and enjoys it.

Your choice.

Can we not just be allowed to be old and miserable in our own ways?

Thank you LullyDully and Cornergran.

I heard him read it on Sunday morning on Radio 4 and I was very taken by it. I had meant to look it up and listen again, but never did get round to it.

I have every admiration for him, and for Judith Kerr, but I think we have to remember that we are all different. Different lives, different circumstances. Even different genes.

I wish him all the best, but it's easier for some than it is for others. I'm not sure I like aging well known successful people telling us lesser morals how to do it.

Yes. Very good to read this. Thanks for posting about it.

Thank you LillyDully and cornergran for the link. A thoroughly enjoyable and, yes, poignant essay.

Thank you, a very interesting read