AN acclaimed children’s author is visiting Stockton this week to celebrate the launch of his debut novel and share his love of writing with youngsters from across the borough.

Dave Rudden is set to entertain around 240 school pupils from Hartburn Primary School, Oxbridge Lane Primary and Ian Ramsey Academy with excerpts from his action-packed fantasy tale, Knights of the Borrowed Dark.

The book tells the tale of a 13-year-old orphan, Denizen Hardwick, who finds himself caught up in a secret and ancient battle between an order of magic-wielding humans – the Knights of Borrowed Dark – and a shadowy race of monsters and their powerful master, the Endless King.

Councillor Norma Wilburn, Stockton Borough Council’s cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “Stockton-on-Tees is one of a handful of places chosen nationally by Dave Rudden to launch his fantastic new book, which is set to be the first in a thrilling adventure trilogy.

"This session promises to be full of intrigue, dark magic and adventure and I’m sure it will be a thrilling opportunity for all the young people to meet an author in the flesh.”

The author session is taking place at Hartburn Primary School on Friday, April 15 and will see students from Years 5 to 7 drawn into the fantasy world in which the book is set via powerful readings and interactive story telling.

This event is the latest in a series of author events organised by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Libraries.