Kids into books: Blabber Mouth

Everyday the Herald carries an extract from a childrens' book as part of its commitment to children's literacy.

Author:Morris Gleitzman

Publisher: Macmillian $12:95

Illustrator: Nigel Buchanen

Age group 8-10 years



I watched anxiously while all the kids read the letter. I was pretty pleased with it, but you can never tell how an audience is going to react.

'G'day,' the letter said, 'my name's Rowena Batts and, as you've probably noticed by now, I can't speak. Don't worry, but, we can still be friends cause I can write, draw, point, nod, shake my head, screw up my nose and do sign language. I used to go to a special school but the government closed it down. The reason I can't speak is I was born with some bits missing from my throat. (It's OK, I don't leak). Apart from that, I'm completely normal and my hobbies are reading, watching TV and driving my Dad's tractor. I hope we can be friends, your sincerely, Rowena Batts.'

That letter took me about two hours to write last night, not counting the time i spent arguing with Dad about the spelling, so i was pleased that most people read it all the way through.

Tomorrow:Red lips, ginger hair and a smirk.