AN award-winning author gave students at Frensham Heights School an insight into the art of writing a novel during Literary Week.

Former Children’s Laureate Anne Fine brought her books to life when she read extracts to junior-aged youngsters at the school in Rowledge.

The author, who has written more than 50 books for children, including Madame Doubtfire, Flour Babies and Goggle-Eyes, is the winner of numerous awards, including the prestigious Carnegie Medal on two occasions.

She spoke to older students about the craft of writing and said: “It is important to try to read widely.

“Read, read, read everything. Every book you read turns you into a better writer.”

The theme of this year’s Literary Week at Frensham Heights was Adaptations and Mrs Fine revealed she struggled with the process of her books being adapted for television or cinema.

She said: “Film can show only you what’s happening, not what people are thinking and feeling.

“The author can feel a lot has been lost rather than gained in adaptation.”

Mrs Fine’s book Madame Doubtfire was turned into the 1993 award-winning movie Mrs Doubtfire, starring Robin Williams and Sally Field.

As part of the same week, Bafta-award winning film director Michael Radford spoke to students and parents about the challenges of adapting a story for the big screen.

He also hosted a workshop for years nine to 12, explaining the processes involved in film making.