PUPILS in Oxford got the chance to meet one of their literary idols this week.

Students at The Cherwell School interviewed Philip Pullman, author of the His Dark Materials trilogy.

Pupil Rosie Chalmers, 11, said: “It was really amazing and we even got some free books that Mr Pullman signed for us.

“I’ve read most of His Dark Materials and I asked him what his favourite, and least favourite, parts of writing were.

“He said he liked the beginning bit of stories, but didn’t like going on tour.”

Mr Pullman said: “I had a very good time and enjoyed myself a great deal. My son Jamie went to Cherwell School a long time ago.

“The children were interested in finding out where all my ideas came from, so I told them they had to make ideas come to you. They seemed to get a lot out of it.”

Matt Gray, head of English at the Ferry Road, Marston school, said: “The children were all buzzing. After the interview, they bounded into the library telling our librarian all about the secrets they’d discovered. Mr Pullman was great with the children and they asked some really in-depth questions.”

The visit was part of a Meet the Author show for BBC School Radio, which provides teaching resources.