Meet the Author Behind the Mayhem!
Bring a little Crooks and Nannies chaos into your classroom!
I’m Chris McGuire, an Exmouth-based children’s author and creator of the Crooks and Nannies series.
I offer lively, entertaining author visits for primary schools, designed to inspire young readers, encourage creative thinking and demonstrate that books can be enormous fun.
Drawing on my experience as a children’s author and former television producer, my sessions explore where stories come from, how characters are created and why even the most ridiculous ideas can become brilliant adventures.
There’s plenty of humour, audience participation and the occasional discussion of slime. Naturally.
What Happens During a Visit?
No two school visits are quite the same, but every session is designed to get children laughing, thinking and joining in.
We’ll explore how a ridiculous idea becomes a story, how to invent memorable characters and why sometimes the silliest questions lead to the best adventures.
Using examples from my Crooks and Nannies books, I’ll share some of the secrets behind storytelling, including unexpected twists, larger-than-life villains and the importance of letting your imagination run wild.
Sessions are interactive, with plenty of opportunities for questions, creative contributions and a peek behind the scenes of being a children’s author.
And yes, there may be slime. Although the teachers are usually safe.
Who Are the Sessions For?
My author visits are primarily designed for Key Stage 2 pupils (Years 3–6), with activities and discussions adapted to suit different ages and abilities.
The Crooks and Nannies books are particularly suited to children aged 7+, including reluctant readers and those beginning to discover the pleasure of reading independently.
Sessions can be tailored for individual classes, year groups or larger assemblies, depending on the school’s needs.
Above all, my aim is to show children that reading isn’t something they have to enjoy because it’s good for them. It’s something they can enjoy because it’s fun.
Planning Your Author Visit
I understand that every school is different, so I’m happy to discuss a format that works for your pupils, timetable and available space.
Sessions typically last 30–45 minutes, depending on the age group, with time for questions and discussion.
Visits can include individual classes, combined year groups or larger groups. I can also arrange book-signing opportunities for pupils who would like their own copies of Crooks and Nannies.
I’m based in Exmouth, Devon, and particularly welcome enquiries from schools across Devon and the surrounding area.
If you’re considering an author visit, please get in touch. I’d be delighted to discuss what would work best for your school.
