Crystal Kite Presentation

On the evening of Saturday 4 November 2023, which would've been James Redrup's 34th birthday, I finally had my magical moment. As fireworks went off outside, I was officially presented the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award for 2023. 

In my speech I told James's story, explaining why the book is dedicated to his memory. I did a short reading and I talked about SCBWI and why the award means so much to me personally. The whole experience was incredible. I was really touched to see how many people came up to me afterwards to say how moved they were to hear about the story behind Call Me Lion. This book is my heart and I'm so proud to be the author. 

This bench is in West Bay, Dorset (James' happy place) and has a beautiful inscription which you can read in the photo below.

The Crystal Kite Presentation was one small part of the amazing annual SCBWI BI Conference which is held at the Manchester Metropolitan Uni. It was an incredible weekend but the highlight for me was the cheering I received from my peers. I will never forget my crowning glory. 

Thank you to all of you who continue to support me and Call Me Lion. I'm eternally grateful. I can now officially call myself an Award Winning Author. Get in!