With a frisson of fear, in an atmosphere of excitement and expectation, Wied Wirdien, the long awaited sequel to Sqaq l-Infern, was launched late last month by Merlin Library.

Some Junior New readers, who had sent in their reasons for wanting to attend the event, could not even be told where they were going when they were invited! The venue was as closely guarded a secret as the book's cover. But even this wasn't enough to stop nearly 100 extra people turning up on the night!

Now all has been revealed! - Guests arrived at city gate in vans and were escorted down Republic Street by the scary Immarkati creatures to the secret venue of the launch. Tantalising tastes from the book were performed by some of its characters. The authors were on hand to sign copies and meet fans and the highlight of the event was when the book cover was unveiled, having been kept literally under wraps!

Here are the reasons Junior News readers gave for wanting to attend the launch. Sharon Pisani, 13, of Lija said: "I would like to take part in this event because when I read Sqaq l-Infern I really loved it because it was very interesting. It also helped me because I rarely read in Maltese but this book glued me to it till I finished it. I'm really looking forward to Wied il-Wirdien.

Manuel Zarb, 11, of Birkirkara wrote: "I would really like to take part in this event because I have read Sqaq l-Infern and I have really enjoyed it. I am now looking forward to reading the second book. It was very mysterious and it left me curious to know what will happen next. I would love to take part in the event to be surrounded by kids who have enjoyed the book like I did and who love reading like I do."

"I would like to be part of the group of Junior News readers attending this special event. I love books and since I did not have the opportunity to attend for the launch of Sqaq l-Infern, it would be nice to attend on this occasion," wrote Justine Pearson, 11, of Rabat.

Jeremy Gatt, 12, of Naxxar, said he usually preferred books in non-English. Sqaq l-Infern was one of the first English books that he really enjoyed. He also really liked the story since he hasn't seen any Maltese books with this kind of story. He hopes the sequel will be just as interesting and addictive to read as the first.

Rebekah Bulteel, 12, of Marsaxlokk, wanted to take part because she had enjoyed the last book launch. Her sister Kathleen, 11, had enjoyed the first book and was curious to see how the next two would be. When she heard about it she thought it would be very exciting and an experience she would never forget.

The event was also very special for Lara Cortis, 14, of Naxxar, who was the winner of a copy of Wied Wirdien in our competition.

Arriving in Valletta.


From left: Author Simon Bartolo, Lara, Justine, Joseph de Gabriele, Kathleen, Sharon, Rebekah, Jeremy and author Lorianne Vella


Lisa receives her book prize from its authors.


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