by Aadya Gupta, Grade 7
In his session ‘Good Friends and Marvellous Mix-Ups’ at the Neev Literature Festival 2025, author Neil Flory was able to draw the audience into a world of laughter, music, and imagination. The children were immediately curious as he began with playful questions, inviting them to share their thoughts and join in the fun. A silly, humorous song about books soon had everyone singing along, and props like the cactus from his book, Cactus Needs a Hug, made the stories feel tangible, as if the children were stepping right into the pages of the story itself. The venue buzzed with energy, with children laughing, singing, and moving excitedly around the author, creating a lively, almost chaotic atmosphere that only added to the charm of the session.
The session revolved around three key ideas that Neil wove seamlessly into his storytelling. First, he highlighted the importance of kindness and empathy, showing through the cactus that even the prickliest friends need care and understanding. Second, he emphasized the value of differences and quirks, illustrating that mistakes and unusual traits make friendships richer and more interesting. Third, he demonstrated that stories are a powerful way to connect with real feelings, capturing emotions like shyness, curiosity, and excitement in ways children could relate to instantly. Neil’s tone constantly shifted with the story, bringing humor, suspense, and warmth to every moment.
Unlike most speakers at the event, Neil didn’t conduct the session by standing at a podium. Instead, he comfortably sat down on the stage, creating a welcoming environment where he could engage directly with each child, answering questions and responding to their comments. His sunglasses and casual attire allowed the audience to instantly feel comfortable around him; this only added to the relaxed, child-friendly ambience, making it easy for the children to participate freely. Through his humor, songs, and playful storytelling, he made lessons about friendship, kindness, and self-acceptance resonate with both the young audience and anyone observing.
Personally, Neil’s style of writing and storytelling inspired me to embrace my own creativity and imagination, especially when it feels a little silly or imperfect. Watching how he turned humor, props, and interactive elements into a captivating experience reminded me that writing doesn’t always have to be serious—it can be lively, experimental, and full of personality. Overall, the session was not just entertaining but inspiring, showing how stories can spark laughter, empathy, and joy in readers of all ages.
