FASCINATED faces watched as a writer conjured up a majestic world full of dragons and wizardry.

Author Scarlett Thomas visited children at Chandlings School in Kennington yesterday, as she spoke about her latest literary release.

The celebrated novelist, known for titles including The End of Mr Y, ventured into children’s writing this year with her book Dragon’s Green.

She spoke to pupils at the school’s library as part of a book tour of schools across the country, and challenged them to find out what their power would be in a magical world.

Pupils were able to take part in creative writing exercises and learnt more about how Ms Thomas gets inspired before putting pen to paper.

Elspeth Greig, the school’s librarian, said: “We had an amazing response. The children asked lots of questions and seemed really interested.”

Mrs Greig said she had the ‘best job in the world’ and the school was privileged to have a good partnership with book shops, including Mostly Books in Abingdon, which helped to arrange yesterday’s talk.

She said: “I see every child in the school right from nursery to Year 6 every week, so I know them quite well and know what they like reading.

“I know so many will love this one; I’m sure it will be really popular.

“The school is really active with book-related events and the children are all really keen readers.”