VIMHS

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VIMHS

  • “For me to survive meant I had to get old fast.” Author Eric Walters on getting personal in The King of Jam Sandwiches

“For me to survive meant I had to get old fast.” Author Eric Walters on getting personal in The King of Jam Sandwiches

Sunday 26th February 2023

Eric Walters shares how his childhood shaped 'The King of Jam Sandwiches', addressing mental illness, poverty, and the power of teachers.
28 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
Educational

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Eric Walters: Childhood Struggles and Triumphs in 'The King of Jam Sandwiches'

These were kids who didn't like to read or write, and I thought I could engage them by bringing them into the story.
Imagine growing up fast because your childhood left you no other choice. That's the heart of Eric Walters' latest book, 'The King of Jam Sandwiches'. In this episode of People First Radio, Walters opens up about how his own childhood experiences shaped the story of 13-year-old Robbie. The book dives deep into issues like mental illness, poverty, and foster care, all while being accessible to young readers.
It's no wonder it snagged the Governor General’s Literary Award for young people’s literature in 2020. Walters doesn’t just write about tough topics; he lives them, making his insights both genuine and powerful. But Walters doesn’t stop at storytelling. He highlights the educational inequalities faced by kids from low-income backgrounds and underscores the vital role teachers play in these children's lives. His commitment to diverse literature shines through as he discusses his approach to writing about these challenging subjects.
If you're curious about how literature can serve as a mirror to our society's most pressing issues, this episode is a must-listen. So, if you’re looking for an inspiring conversation that tackles the hard truths of mental health and poverty with sensitivity and hope, tune in. Eric Walters offers not just a story, but a lifeline to understanding the complexities faced by many children today.
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