Local teacher and author Andrew Beasley shares his spooky secrets

Plymouth primary school teacher and newly published author Andrew Beasley will have youngsters on the edge of their seats this week when he drops in at Plymstock Library to talk about his super scary story ‘Ben Kingdom: The Claws of Evil’.

The swashbuckling adventure, set in an imaginary Victorian London, is Andrew’s debut novel and has been included in the official book collection for this year’s national Summer Reading Challenge.

Intrepid explorers aged four to 12 are being invited to uncover the secrets of the ‘Creepy House’ by reading lots of library books, collecting stickers along the way (some are stinky!) to complete a special poster. Children who complete the challenge will receive a certificate and medal – and be in with a chance of winning a Lego Monster Castle, courtesy of Barratt Homes.

“We’re delighted that Andrew’s book has been chosen as a suggested Creepy House read,” said Julia Hale from the Council’s library service. “It’s a thrilling tale of good versus evil that will have youngsters on the edge of their seats.”

Andrew will be appearing at Plymstock Library at 2.30pm on Wednesday 31 July and Plympton Library at 11am on Monday 5 August to talk about the book and sign copies.

The talks are for children aged nine and over and booking is advisable – email library@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 305900. Copies of The Claws of Evil will be on sale at both events for £6.99.

Other special events taking place for Creepy House include a performance at the Central Library by the Second Hand Dance Company on Tuesday 6 August and spooky storytelling sessions in the Victorian schoolroom of the Merchant’s House in St Andrew’s Street on Friday 2 and Friday 16 August.

For more information visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/creepyhouse.