The most amazing part of this retreat is how I came away feeling part of something important. We're all trying to do something incredible; to write powerful, inspirational stories that get into the hands of children. We want them to feel motivated to read more and maybe even write their own stories. We want our books to help children understand themselves and others better, to show and feel empathy. It is incredibly important work because well-read children lead fuller and happier lives. The retreat reminds me of the bigger picture of what we are all trying to achieve and I feel very privileged to be part of something so wonderful as the SCBWI British Isles.