Showstopping sand installation at Barnstaple Library

Michael Morpurgo, one of Britain’s best loved writers for children, is back with his new publication Boy Giant: Son of Gulliver. To celebrate the release a giant sand sculpture of Omar, the main character from the book, has journeyed from a display at the crypt of St Martin in the Fields church, Trafalgar Square and has arrived safely at Barnstaple library.

Boy Giant is a story about Omar, a young refugee fleeing from his war-torn country. This stunning book brings together hope, humanity and high-seas adventure.

A thrilling adventure inspired by the classic story of Gulliver’s Travels, this is also a gripping modern narrative of rescue and refuge. A book about breaking down walls, at a time when many are trying to build them. And a timeless reminder of humanity’s infinite capacity for good… even when those humans are very small indeed.

The giant Omar sand sculpture will be at Barnstaple library until May 2020.  Barnstaple library has scheduled a programme of events to celebrate Omar’s arrival, including the following:

On Thursday 13th February, Mary Houldsworth, a volunteer with Medecins Sans Frontieres, who has spent time working in Afghan refugee camps, will be setting up a mock refugee camp in the library.  Local schools and colleges will be attending throughout the day.  There will be an opportunity for the public to attend a talk and see the camp at 3.30-4.30pm.  Tickets £3 booked in advance.

Thursday 27th February, 2-3pm, Mary will be giving a talk about her experience of volunteering in Afghan refugee camps.  Tickets £3 booked in advance.

Monday 17th February, 11am-12pm, a free workshop for children aged 5-11 with North Devon Sunrise.  Make and take home a luggage:

Sunrise will guide children through workshops about the reality of a refugee’s experience, using fabric and a range of materials to make your own luggage tag to take home with you. Children will look at themes such as feelings, identity, and empathy. You will have an opportunity to decorate bunting which will be displayed at the Diversity Festival 2020.

Tuesday 18th February, 1-2pm, a free workshop for children aged 11-16 with North Devon Sunrise. Make and take home a luggage:

Sunrise will guide children through workshops about the reality of a refugee’s experience, using fabric and a range of materials to make your own luggage tag to take home with you. Children will look at themes such as feelings, identity, and empathy. You will have an opportunity to decorate bunting which will be displayed at the Diversity Festival 2020.

The grand finale will be visit from Michael Morpurgo on Wednesday 6th May at 5pm.  Booking details will be released soon.

“We are delighted to have been given the opportunity by Harper Collins to display the beautiful sand sculpture of Omar here at Barnstaple library.  He looks splendid in the foyer and has proved a real talking point. We do hope many people visit our library to see Omar, have their photo taken with the sculpture and join in the events.” said Lisa D’Alberti, Senior Supervisor: Resources and Information at Barnstaple library

Barnstaple Library has a signed copy of Michael Morpurgo’s new book Boy Giant: Son of Gulliver and they will be holding a competition to win it.  Details coming soon.

For more information visit devonlibraries.org.uk or visit Barnstaple library.