Ex-student News …
All of us here at Presdales are thrilled to see that ex-student Lottie Mills has had her talent recognised yet again as she has won the 2020 BBC Young Writers’ Award with her moving short story, ‘The Changeling.’ We were all impressed back in 2018 when she managed to combine A’ level study with being shortlisted for this award with the fabulous ‘Unspoken’. Both stories will only take up 10 minutes of your time and they are well worth savouring.
Lottie is a fantastic role model for younger students. Born with cerebral palsy, she experiences many challenges but she remains resilient and she is now gaining the recognition due to her as she celebrates the positives and strengths of being ‘othered’ in her writing. We wish her every success and we await the publication of her first novel with considerable anticipation.
Year 12 Reviews of Lottie Mills’ short story ‘The Changeling’
I thought that the piece was poignant and amazingly written. I was particularly affected by the bittersweet ending where the mother heard the daughter disappear. I think it was beautiful that she could celebrate her daughter’s freedom and peace rather than just mourning and missing her. The theme of isolating difference is so important and this story of blossoming through that to become your own person was heart-warming. I think that the idea that something which someone might class as a defect, transforming into something wonderful is so applicable to everyone and our lives. The beginning of her story was one part that touched me, when the mother feels guilty that Rowen was handled and held by the doctors before her. I could feel the sense of the mother’s desperation to hold her child and give her the life she feels she deserves. I also think it is incredible that the mother continues to think of Rowen as her daughter even though she is clearly a fairy, as it shows that we have a choice who we love and care for. It is inspiring for me that this was written by a former Presdales student and this helps me believe in my own abilities and potential.
Maddie Hunter
Lottie Mills, 19, won the 2020 BBC Young Writers’ Award for her short story ‘The Changeling.’ It tells a story of a mother’s experience with her disabled child, describing her child’s early life and coming of age.
I found this story so touching. I am at a loss for words. While listening, I immediately felt attached to the mother and her daughter. It made me feel heart-broken for the young girl in her tragic experience. This short story reminded me of how we don’t see the emotional pain others feel inside when we treat them wrongly, and how this may be a reality for people in the world today. I love the way Lottie Mills has written this story about real world issues people face and struggle with inwardly. In my opinion, the moral lesson I’ve picked up from this is so crucial.
It is incredible to see a Presdales alumnus create a beautiful masterpiece like this and succeed in what they do. I can’t believe Lottie Mills has won this national competition, she definitely deserves it!
I would strongly recommend this story to anyone, and I’d give it a 10/10!
Clare Nsimbi
