My article all about a recent SCBWI school visit workshop was published in Words and Pictures today. This is the brilliant (and free) online magazine resource for all SCBWI members. You don't have to be a member to enjoy it though and if you'd like to take a look, click on the link below to read my article: 

​Words and Pictures

Check out this email I have just received via Molly's Grandma, Sue. I know Sue and she kindly bought a copy of Jarred Dreams for her granddaughter, Molly. I just opened my emails to read this lovely message:
Hello Cam! 
It’s Molly who finished your book yesterday and I’d like to let you know how incredible your book was😆. After reading Jarred Dreams, it must be one of my favourite books ,if not, my favourite! I honestly, truly and utterly enjoyed it! It wasn’t just the page turning story that you gave both perspectives from, but the amazing and beautiful illustrations (I also really loved the whiteness of the pages.) The urm surprise (I’ve given it to grandma to read so I don’t want to ruin the shock when she reads this email) that you told us at the end really made me gasp! I actually don’t have any major faults except for the fact that you repeated the same words a few times that I believe 🤔 have other good synonyms. But I couldn’t write a book as well as you (obviously😊). Well, I think it would be boring if I kept on saying how brilliant, fantastic, magnificent, interesting and wonderfully intriguing Jarred Dreams was so I’ll go. Thank you ever so much for giving me this book. 

This is my reply:
Hi Molly,
Thank you so much for letting me know how much you enjoyed reading Jarred Dreams and well done for not giving the game away to your Grandma! I understand you read lots of books so it makes it extra special that you liked Jarred Dreams so much. I definitely repeat words so thanks for reminding me not to be lazy!
It is really nice to hear from readers like you. To prove it I have put your email up onto my blog, exactly as you've sent it to me - even with the emojis! If you'd like to take a look, go to my website and click on the blog page. If you scroll back you can also see the other books I have been reading.
As you liked Jarred Dreams, you might like to read my second book EATS, but be warned it is much sillier and very different to my first book - more like a Roald Dahl story. I have also got a third book coming out, all about another world - a place with unicorns and dragons! If you would like to come to the launch of that you only have until 1 April to enter the competition. Take a look at my competitions page on my website to find out more.
Thanks again for taking the time to write to me - it was lovely to hear from you.
Best Wishes
Camilla

Just seen a great school production written by the talented Deborah Heath.

Funny, clever, witty, concise, accurate, fun and packed with catchy songs, Her Name Is Boudicca was performed very professionally by Y3 of Cunninghamhill Junior School, St Albans. I was very impressed.

If any schools out there are looking for a fun and inspiring way to teach the story of this legendary warrior then look no further than this play. 

My interview with The Letterpress Project is now online. 

If you would like to view it click on this link: http://www.letterpressproject.co.uk/inspiring-young-readers/2018-03-27/an-interview-with-camilla-chester

Not as fun as being interviewed by my daughter, Sasha, this morning as a special assembly in her school to tell the children about my new book and how to win tickets to the launch. To find out more go to my competitions page.

Please note that the event will now start at 6.30pm instead of 6pm. It is still due to finish at 7.30pm. This is due to set up time, as the library will still be open to the public until 6pm.
I've updated the competition page with this information.
The competition is still open until 1 April, and I've been having some excellent wishes. Don't miss out on your chance to come along for free. All you have to do is tell me what you would wish for:
FIND OUT MORE HERE

Big Shout Out to the following fantastic schools that I have visited recently:
Manland Primary:
Where I got asked if I was a billionaire (I wish) and I was seriously worried that I might get snowed in!
Beech Hyde Primary:
Where I was recognised immediately as being dressed up as Sade from Jarred Dreams by a Y6 boy who'd read the book. He has promised to make Jarred Dreams into a film - once he gets hold of Steven Spielberg. 
St Peters School:
Where a Y6 girl said I had inspired her to become a Children's Author and I did a book signing that made me feel like a celebrity. 
NB: If anyone is reading this that has a photo or a quote/feedback from any of these visits please get in touch as I would love to post them on the website - thanks.

Love, love, love visiting schools. If you'd like me to visit your school get in touch!