The Lindisfarne Gospels by Peter Gillan

When I was seven I saw them. The pages were yellow and crinkled, with age. I saw the Lindisfarne Gospels at the Laing Art Gallery. I saw them with my own eyes- the pages were carefully and beautifully designed with withering serpents and weird but wonderful unusual patterns and lettering. The fronts were slowly and perfectly embraced with precious jewels. Even though I saw these precious objects four years ago, I can remember them still. There were lots of swirls and lines which were carefully crafted. Although we did not touch Cuthbert's book we had the honour and pleasure of seeing it. I bet if we could read Latin we could unravel the mystery. I think if they were dedicated to me I would be too honoured to accept these ancient, mystical scripts. But you have to see them for yourself to understand properly.

The Northumbrian Association’s Young Writers Award 2004
Peter Gillan, aged 11 years: Joint Winner