Author visit to Washago School

On June 2, the whole Wilson family enjoyed visiting Rama Central Public School in Washago. Ian's PowerPoint presentation to the Grade 4, 5 & 6 classes was followed by a lively question and answer period. All these students had read The Secret of the Old Swing Bridge in class, so they were curious about the background of the story and the writing process. The familiar setting of Washago and environs made Angus's adventures all the more real to them!

 

Here's Ian with Matilda, the girl who introduced her teacher, Mr. Elliott (on the right) to The Secret of the Old Swing Bridge.

Couldn't resist taking a photo of three kids named Spencer! The one on the far right is Spencer Wilson.

In the afternoon, Ian led Mr. Elliott's Grade 5 class on a tour of some of the sites featured in The Secret of the Old Swing Bridge. Here we are at the end of the road where the old Highway 11 swing bridge used to span the Trent-Severn Canal.

 Here is the old White Rose Station which provided the inspiration for Eddie's garage and house.

By the tracks in Washago . . .

Mr. Elliott's class, plus a few visitors . . .

Exploring the park where Angus lost his toy rocket

 

By sheer coincidence, we were visited by the real "Hookah Hopkin" at our home in Orillia later that day. You just never know when this leather-clad recluse is going to turn up on your doorstep!