When I dreamed about becoming a 'real author' there were particular milestones or events that I wanted to experience. These were things that made it all feel real and exciting. You might guess the kind of things I mean - seeing the cover, holding my book in my hand for the first time, hearing what a reader thinks, that type of thing.

One of the important ones was seeing someone on a train reading my book. I was therefore overjoyed to see this photo.

In the interest of transparency, this picture does date back to 2017 and the boy reading Jarred Dreams is now almost as tall as a house!

I still long for the moment I see someone for real (mainly so I can whisper "I wrote that" and really freak the reader out) BUT this is still an amazing photo so I had to share it with you.

I'm wondering what you're all reading ATM.

I've just finished reading October, October by Katya Balen. She also wrote The Space We're In.

As you probably already know, I don't usually review books on my blog or website. You can, however,  look on GoodReads to see what I have thought of the many different books I have read. 

With this book I am breaking my own rules. Occasionally I read something that takes my breath away with how beautiful it is. This book was both intimidating (I know I will never be able to write as Kayta does) and inspiring (because it shows it is possible).

October is wild and so is this book.

Loved it!

It was fantastic to be back in the classroom.  I worked with Y5 and Y6 at Kimpton Primary School, Hertfordshire. 

With Y5 we used my 'Box of Wonders' activity to show how objects can be used to generate story ideas, characters and settings simply by asking the right questions. 

With Y6 we used the 'Consequences' method to make a crazy story about poisoned toast and a bullied flamingo set in an all girls school during Christmas holidays!

I've missed school visits so much during the pandemic. It really does inspire and motivate  children in may aspects of their literacy work and it is the best thing by far about being a Children's Author.

If you're considering an author visit to your school, please do get in touch. I'd really love to hear from you.

In the meantime here are some photos of my visit and a huge THANK YOU to the staff and pupils at Kimpton Primary for making me feel so welcome.