As a child, Carrie Hope Fletcher starred in stage shows such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Les Misérables and Mary Poppins - and these experiences inspired her first book for young readers, Into the Spotlight. Clearly, Fletcher has coped well with fame and found different ways to get on with her life. But is she an exception? There are many examples of child stars who really struggled to adapt back to life away from the spotlight so is it really worth the risk?
This resource pack includes an article from The Week Junior newspaper about Carrie Hope Fletcher and her new book, plus an activities sheet to get children thinking, talking and writing more deeply about the issues it raises.
This PDF resource includes this article, as well as accompanying activity ideas:
- Carrie Hope Fletcher has clearly coped well with fame and found different ways to get on with her life. But is she an exception? Is it really appropriate to expose children to such a competitive and demanding situation at such a young age? Or do examples like this show that it is perfectly possible for them to manage very well and that the support and understanding they receive clearly work. What do you think?
- Think of a character from a book or show that you would really like to play on stage. Describe the character in detail and explain why you think you would be particularly well suited to that role
- Write a review of a show or film you have seen recently that includes young actors. Remember to summarise the plot briefly, name some of the cast and give your opinion about which aspects of it you liked and which you felt could be improved
- Research the stage or screen career of a young actor you particularly admire. As well as describing their main roles, try to find out what they were doing before they became famous and, if they are now grown up, what they are doing these days.
Find the entire series of Topical Tuesday resources to download here.
What is The Week Junior?
The Week Junior magazine looks at current affairs and helps children make sense of the world, provides context and clarity to complex issues, improves general knowledge and encourages discussion and debate.
To find out more about The Week Junior and to download its free resources, please go to schools.theweekjunior.co.uk.