Merton children from five of the borough's schools gathered at Ursuline High School in Wimbledon last Thursday to hear the extraordinary life story of a former Sudanese child soldier turned rap star.

The talk marked the start of the Wimbledon Bookfest Young Writers' Competition and coincided with the launch of Emmanuel Jal's stark account of life as one of the Lost Boys of Sudan in his book Warchild.

Bookfest director, Fiona Razvi, said: “Words can change people's lives and transport them to another place, this year’s theme is journeys and will suit children from all backgrounds.

“Many children will have their own personal challenges and a positive role-model like Emmanuel can show them what can be achieved.”

Emmanuel's frank talk about his life vividly explored themes as diverse as his struggle to stop himself cannibalising a dead friend while starving, as well as the first time he felt love.

Kwadjo Ahenkorah, 15, from Raynes Park High School, who plucked up the courage to perform an impromptu rap when invited on stage by Emmanuel, said: “I feel inspired, it's a great message and you see how much easier you have it.”

And Ursuline High School head Julia Walters added: “We aim to bring what is happening in the world to the classroom with the aim of enriching the curriculum for the children.”

The competition is open to all children from years one-13 and is split into a poetry and short story category with entrants asked to interpret the theme in any written form.

Deadline for entries is Friday, June 12. For more information log on to wimbledonbookfest.org.