The exciting children's author Damian Dibben visited Bedford Modern Junior School on Friday 2 December, speaking to pupils about his life as an author, his new book and also signing copies of his publication.

Dibben's debut novel - 'The History Keepers: The Storm Begins' (www.thehistorykeepers.com/) - was launched in the UK in September 2011.  Featuring Jake Djones, the unwitting young hero for a new generation, the book is the first in a series from screenwriter turned novelist Damian Dibben.

Aimed largely at 9-13 year old, the book is being translated into 24 languages, everything from Finnish to Chinese.  There is also a film deal with Working Title / Universal (Billy Elliott, Atonement, Nanny McPhee, Bridget Jones etc).

"It's brilliant to be at Bedford Modern Junior School and meet some of the young people who are going to read my new book.  I am a fan of Indiana Jones and James Bond and wanted to write big adventure stories involving heroes, villains, romance and danger," said Damian.

'The History Keepers' sees Jake, the young hero, losing his parents in time - literally in another place in history.  The only way to be reunited is to join the secret agents known as 'The History Keepers' who can travel back in history to stop the dark forces.

Born in London, Dibben has a passion for London's history, people and architecture, which influences his writing and he has been a screenwriter for 10 years both in the UK and in Hollywood.

Chris Barrow, Bedford Modern Junior School Year 6 teacher who arranged for Damian to visit said: "Damian caught the children's imagination with his unique blend of adventure and history.  The children were all eager to read 'The History Keepers' and discover what challenges await the main character Jake Djones.  It was also fantastic to hear about what it takes to be a published writer."

Stella Batty, a Year 6 pupil added: "I have always liked history and 'The History Keepers' is a fun and exciting book.  There are lots of different characters from different times in history all with their relevant historical characteristics and I can't wait to read the next book in 'The History Keepers' series."