Some of our year 6 pupils had a very special trip last week. They were invited to the Houses of Parliament by the talented author Sufiya Ahmed for the launch of her new book, Time Travellers: Adventure Calling. In this novel, characters Sahana, Ayaan and Mia are on a trip to visit the Houses of Parliament, after being shortlisted for an art competition. They are fascinated by the history connected with the place and then somehow Sahana’s mobile phone time travels them all to 1911!
Year 6 children were excited to gain insight into such a culturally significant and historical place.
Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately!), there was no time travelling on the cards for the Elmhurst children during their visit though. However, they were lucky enough to enjoy an interesting tour of the historical building, a Q&A session with Sufiya Ahmed about the book and her writing process, followed by an exclusive book signing.
The children appreciated learning more about politics and literature. They are also now more acquainted with world-famous landmarks such as the newly-cleaned iconic 'Great Clock and bell', more commonly known as 'Big Ben'.
Author Sufiya Ahmed worked in advertising and in the House of Commons before becoming a full-time author. In 2010 she set up the BIBI Foundation, which arranges visits to the Houses of Parliament for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. She has written several children’s books including My Story: Noor-Un-Nissa Inayat Khan, Secrets of the Henna Girl and Under the Great Plum Tree which was longlisted for the UK Literacy Association Book Awards. Time Travellers: Adventure Calling is the start of an adventurous new series with historical twists. Her latest series is set to become a firm favourite with Elmhurst pupils!
Time Travellers: Adventure Calling by Sufiya Ahmed
