Carnegie Library (pictured) Reading Activist Mark has written the first chapter of a new, untitled story, to be completed by his fellow Reading Activists over the next few weeks.

Chapter One

"Do you dream? Stupid question. Of course you do. But have you had dreams that you wake up in and realize it's a dream? A few of you? Hands up, those who have. But, have you ever then looked around and thought 'This is the Dreamworld'? Doubt it.

"The Dreamworld is a place where ideas are born, live and never die. Because how can an idea die? It will stay living far beyond its owner's expiry date. It will continue living through the minds it's touched, and will gain a nature from those who believe in it. However, because of the gained personality, some become nightmares, feeding off the minds of the innocent. But worse still is what happens when someone discovers the true nature of evil. The root of all nightmares. I see him as Void, for that is where he dwells. However, his form changes from person to person, as does the name he wears."

I looked up to take a breather, and guess what I saw? The entire class was bored witless! Before I could continue my incredible speech, I was rudely interrupted by a condescending:

"That was an interesting piece of creative writing, however..."

I kind of zoned out as Miss Wyvill began listing my every mistake, however insignificant, without providing any explanation or improvements.

"Christopher, are you listening?" she demanded. The words leapt unbidden from my mouth:

"No Miss, not at all." I put it down to me being taught to tell the truth.

The teacher's face rippled with shades of red and purple as she shouted:
"Get back to your seat! You're having detention after this!"

I returned to my seat glumly, amidst the piercing gaze of the class. Half of them sympathetic, the other half simply bored. However, I fulfilled my objective. Between the classmates that actually listened to my speech, and those who have read my work on the net, perhaps some will begin to ponder on the Dreamworld. Those who think about their dreams may awaken inside it, and perhaps some will help. For all that I have told you is true. And I'll need all the help I can get.

Get involved

Read some more reviews and articles by our young reporters. If you're aged 11-19 years and you'd like to write a piece for our website get in touch with Robert Sommerlad on robert.sommerlad@readingagency.org.uk.