It's pretty intense but I'm enjoying being part of the new season of books published by Fiction Express.

This is my first experience of writing for Fiction Express and whilst I knew other authors and had an idea of how it worked, you never really know how something is going to be until it starts.

What is it?
Basically, each week a new chapter of the book is launched online and readers vote on what direction they want the story to take. There's also an online forum where readers can chat to me and each other about the characters and the book in general.

You can find out everything you need to know by going to their website: Fiction Express. The video is excellent and explains everything very well.

It's very exciting and, having written for Serial Mash (part of 2Simple, Purple Mash) for many years, I'm used to writing to deadlines and to an outlined idea. However, these are extremely tight deadlines with literally hours to write in. Also, as the majority of readers don't have English as their first language, the level is less about age appropriateness and more about reading ability. This means content and story plot has to be as engaging for a young reader as it is for a teenager. Not easy but hugely rewarding. 

My book, Alex in the Middle, is currently live on chapter two and readers are chatting about which character they would rather be at this point in the story and why. It's really fascinating reading all the different opinions.

I'm waiting to see which direction I am going to be writing in next. I hope they're thinking the same as me...

I've been busy helping the fantastic team at Writers & Artists organise the next event designed specifically for upcoming and unpublished children's authors.

Finding the Heart of Your Story is a mini conference held at the Bloomsbury Offices in central London. It is a highly prestigious, one-off event, which aims to get writers thinking deeply about the story they are writing. Answering the all important question of Why Me and Why Now?

The event is on 25 November 2023 9-3pm at Bloomsbury, London

Two, highly acclaimed children's authors, Emma Norry and Robert Tregoning will be workshopping and there will also be the chance to ask questions to Bloomsbury commissioning editor(s).

If you book before the end of September you will be able to claim the early bird discount. Just use HEART 99 when checking out. But hurry as places are really limited. 

For bookings and to find out more visit the website: Finding the Heart of Your Story with W&A

I've had the incredible news that Call Me Lion has been selected by UKLA for the long list of the 2024 Book Awards in the 7-10 Age category. As you can see, it sits alongside a collection of amazing children's books. I'm absolutely thrilled and feel completely honoured to be part of this list.

The books are all chosen by librarians and teachers and are titles that offer not only storytelling but also aim to give wider discussion and learning opportunities.

If you would like to find out more about the awards, or perhaps you're thinking of getting involved, please visit the website: UKLA Book Awards