Joining an ‘Audience with…’ event is like being invited to eavesdrop on a very personal book chat. These events go beyond a question and answer format; Nikki’s thorough research and vast knowledge of children’s literature always eliciting golden nuggets of literary conversation.

I would not be the teacher that I am without Nikki. Her expertise and professional wisdom have significantly shaped my practice, as well as the principles underpinning it. Whether I’ve attended a formal session that she has delivered or had a more informal discussion with her, she constantly inspires me to read more, think harder and strive to develop my practice in exciting new ways.

I am in awe and wonder at the depth and breadth of Nikki’s knowledge of children’s literature and classroom pedagogy. The 2020 summer school was the highlight of the season for me. My brain was exploding during and after every inspiring and deeply thought-provoking session. Thank you, Nikki!

The summer school was an enlightening and enjoyable experience. Through the six sessions, I broadened my knowledge and understanding and the thought-provoking speakers highlighted aspects of children’s literature that were new to me. I am so glad I signed up for it.

The webinars on Deeper Reading- small group work and An Ear for Reading – fluency were instrumental to me developing my practice this year. Each webinar was full of solid research, references and discussion as well as classroom examples. I signed up as soon as I saw the next one advertised!

Nikki has a talent for attracting folk from all walks of education but with a shared love of children’s books.  She then organises and orchestrates the most vibrant of events so that everyone feels involved, connected and valued.  That is how the Summer School was – a virtual children’s book party that I looked forward to each week.  Nikki leaves no perspective unturned and is one of the few educationalists who can expertly mesh both the academic, practical and personal.

The Exploring Children’s Literature Summer School was the highlight of my summer. Nikki Gamble and her stellar cast of experts delivered sessions which were both academic and practical whilst always being entertaining and thought-provoking.  It was the best PD I have done in a long time – and I can’t wait for more!

Being interviewed by Nikki Gamble is an utter pleasure. Her knowledge of children’s fiction is exceptional, and the care and attention she gives to the title under discussion is exemplary. It is so nice to receive such insightful questions, so warmly delivered. Imagine Jeremy Paxman, but friendly.

The Just Imagine summer school, designed and run by Nikki Gamble, is a genius idea, put together in the exceptionally difficult circumstances of the COVID lockdown. The quality of debate and discussion was second to none, guided at all times by Nikki’s skilful, incisive questioning and deep knowledge. Anyone in the publishing and educational world would greatly benefit from future participation – I cannot recommend it highly enough!

Our event with Kate DiCamillo was purely magical. Nikki was a sensitive and intelligent chair and the invited guests were absolutely wonderful. The evening was an incredibly special highlight of Kate’s UK tour.

An Audience with Geraldine McCaughrean was such a thought-provoking and engaging evening, pieced together and presented with wit and wisdom.