Matt Dickinson is a film maker and writer. He has created documentaries for the BBC, National Geographic and Discovery Channel. His books include a range of fiction and non-fiction for young adults and adults including ‘Lie, Kill, Walk Away’ and ‘The Everest Files’ which were available for signing on World Book Day. He is a particularly busy man juggling writing, family and school visits alongside his wider world adventures.

Below Charlie Schutte (10M), interviewed Matt Dickinson for the Hoot.

Thank you for attending today. Can you start by explaining why you chose this school over thousands of other schools in the UK?

First, I got invited by one of the teachers from the school. Noting that this school does well in reading, I decided to visit over countless others. I have had a super day and a very warm welcome from the SGS community.

Today you are visiting us to talk about reading and Geography. What is it about Geography that you like?

You can go on adventures with Geography from deserts, like Kalahari, to mountains, like Everest. Basically, anywhere in the world, travelling has informed my world view and has given me inspiration for my stories.

During my Geography lecture to Year 10 students, I also outlined careers that are available for students who take Geography further including those who help study our planet and how climate change might be mitigated to avoid devastating flooding in the UK.

What is your greatest achievement in life?

Probably having 5 children. I consider having each child as climbing a mountain. I would especially recommend the “Popcorn-Eating Squirrels Go Nuts” series to the young children.

How many countries have you been to?

I’ve been to more than 100 different countries in the world. I think 128 countries in total, many from visiting schools.

My most memorable school visit was getting trapped in a hotel due to flash flooding in Asia.

Scariest moment climbing Everest?

Doing so in the middle of a storm. This I describe in my book ‘The Death Zone’ which has been used as an extract for an AQA GCSE Language exam. 8 climbers died on Everest as a result of that storm. We were also the first expedition to discover the infamous ‘Green Boots’.

What inspired you to climb Everest?

It wasn’t really “I’m inspired”, it was more a thing I had to do for a documentary. However, it is also a once in a life time opportunity and an unforgettable feat. I became the third British man to scale Everest up the North Face.

How much do you read?

I like to read a lot. I read after I’ve done all my work, before I go to bed. Generally, that’s around 40 minutes.

Only the top 10% actually read 20 minutes or more per day. Do 40 minutes a day and you’re definitely in the top bunch!

Yes, for sure reading has a very palpable impact which is why days like this are so important!