Zanna’s visit to the Trust schools was a special highlight of this year’s World Book Day celebrations. She toured all the Trust’s schools to share her passion for reading and writing with pupils.

During her presentation, Zanna spoke passionately about how her love of reading began and how it inspired her to start writing stories. She encouraged pupils to follow their passion, read as much as possible, take part in reading challenges at their local libraries, and use storytelling to inspire others.

Zanna published her first book, Zanna’s Amazing Shakespeare: As I Like It, at just seven years old. Originally created as her highly commended entry for the 2023 Shakespeare Week competition, the manuscript was later featured in the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust online exhibition and selected for its museum collection. Inspired by her success, she went on to write a second book, My First Coding Adventure (Ages 3–5), introducing young children to coding through colourful stories and simple interactive activities.

Wendy Clark, Acting Head of St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School in Puckeridge, thanked Zanna for her inspiring sharing. She added that Zanna had inspired the entire school community, including teachers, to try writing and publishing their own books.

Sam Smith, Learning Resource Centre Manager at St Mary's Catholic School, shared that despite her young age, Zanna spoke with confidence, passion, and maturity during what was her first-ever visit to a secondary school. She captivated the audience as she described the themes of her books, the challenges she has faced, and the motivation that drives her to keep writing. Her determination, paired with her impressive achievements, left students amazed and inspired. 

At the end of each visit, Zanna generously donated signed copies of her books to each school, leaving a lasting reminder of her inspiring message and her love of storytelling.

Zanna shared how her love of reading inspired her to write stories, encouraging pupils to read widely and follow their passions. The photo captures her sharing with pupils and staff at St Joseph’s (Waltham Cross).

Zanna donates signed copies of her books to each Trust school.

Staff members at St Mary’s Catholic School took the opportunity to take photos with young author Zanna after the sharing session.

About St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust (https://www.stfrancistrust.net)

St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust (St Francis Trust) is a multi-academy trust established in 2021. It currently serves nine Catholic schools – eight primary schools and one secondary school and which is growing to welcome two more Secondary schools and four more Primary schools over the next one to two years.

The Trust’s mission is to provide an outstanding Catholic education for all the children in our schools, helping them to grow in faith and reach their full potential. Guided by the values of St Francis, the Trust promotes academic excellence, spiritual development, and service to others.