
A special virtual author talk
Writing RUNT with Craig Silvey

"I always conceived of this as a screen project. I always knew that it would lend itself well to the screen format." - Craig Silvey
Join the ACTF and ACMI for a special virtual event with acclaimed Australian author and screenwriter Craig Silvey. In this engaging session, Craig will take students behind the scenes of RUNT - a heartwarming and adventurous film about eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her loyal dog Runt, as they work together to save their family farm in the country town of Upson Downs.
Designed for Years 3–6, this session offers valuable insights into the creative process of adapting a novel for the screen. It’s an ideal opportunity for young storytellers to explore themes of narrative, character development and screenwriting, while learning from one of Australia’s most celebrated writers.
In this live virtual session, students will:
- Discover how Craig brought RUNT’s characters and world to life on screen
- Learn what’s involved in adapting a book into a film
- Explore what changes and what stays the same in the screenwriting process
- Get a sneak peek at the upcoming book sequel, Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping!
- Take part in a live Q&A with Craig (submit your students’ questions in the additional comments when registering)
Recommended preparation for classes
- Watch the RUNT film before the session – available to download via the ACTF Shop
- Explore the free RUNT Education Resource
- Learn more about the adaptation process in this interview with Craig Silvey
Virtual Event Details
Year Level Years 3 - 6
Date Wednesday 15 October
Duration 45 minutes
Time
12:30PM AEDT (VIC, NSW, ACT, TAS)
12PM ACDT (SA)
11:30AM AEST (QLD)
11AM ACST (NT)
9:30AM AWST (WA)
Please note: Victorian schools have the opportunity to join an in-person film screening, book signing and the live Q & A session at ACMI. Teachers can register for the in-person event here.
If you can't make the scheduled session, you can still register to receive a recording and access the resources to explore at a time that suits your class.
Virtual event: Writing RUNT with Craig Silvey
