READING fans young and old packed the children’s area of Grays Library on Thursday (22 March) as author Seema Barker read one of her books, The Tangle Fairy.
Among the children were members of Thameside Infant School’s reception and nursery classes who were surprised that Seema herself went to the same school — but when it was based in Arthur Street, Grays.
Seema told the audience of 63 — 33 children and 30 adults who all enjoyed the show — the book was based on her eldest daughter who often complained of tangled hair.
She said she found the rhyming and rhythmical style of the book appealed to children.
The reading session, part of the 2012 Essex Book Festival, was followed by puppet-making classes for the school children and colouring for the others.
The Conservatives launched their local election campaign and read their local manifesto and election leaflets to the youngsters.