Breakfast with author Diane Hofmeyr

The former art teacher spoke to her guests about stimulating children and offered tips on how to get them to excited about reading.

Hofmeyr, who has written over 20 novels and picture books which have won her numerous awards, said she has over the years realised how images and music can evoke writing for children. She was recently on a tour which saw her visit nine schools in South Africa and numerous other schools and libraries in greater London.

On her tour, she hosted creative writing sessions, and as a former teacher, facilitated many picture book workshops and discussions.

One of the guests, Nicky Sulter, applauded Hofmeyr for her writing and said school children loved reading Oliver Strange so much so, she had to purchase more.