What Am I Reading? AND SCBWI Conference

It was the SCBWI British Isles annual conference this weekend. We had three fantastic key note speakers: Alex T Smith, Julia Eccleshare and Liz Pichon: hence the reading of the Tom Gates book.

It was my first year coming, not as a delegate, but in an official volunteer role as Front of House Coordinator. It was a very different experience and unfortunately I didn't get to listen to all the speakers or join in with all the workshops like I usually could. It was still a fantastic weekend, especially as I was in the safe hands of Suzie Wilde (author of Book of Bera) who was the previous Front of House Coordinator. It also meant that I could properly meet our stars. Below is a selfie that I took of Liz Pichon with me at the faculty dinner before the conference began. Yes - I now get to schmooze with all kinds of celebrities - all through the wonderful organisation that is SCBWI.

Along with one of the Tom Gates books (which are hilariously brilliant - the theme of this year's conference was Seriously Funny) I am also reading Indigo Donut by Patrice Lawrence. Patrice is another celebrity SCBWI author and by chance I shared a car with her on the way back to London along with Louise (another SCBWI member) and driven by the legendary Sophia Bennet.

NB: If these names mean nothing to you don't worry, I am just overly excited as in the world of Children's Literature they are renowned. Look them up!

The highlight for me this weekend was when I got to sneak in to watch a bit of Candy Gourlay in conversation with Julia Eccelshare. I felt completely reassured that what I am doing as a Children's Author is all good stuff and just to carry on. One day my books will be as popular as the Tom Gates books - my time will come... perhaps after I am dead though?!

To make sure I don't leave you on that nasty thought, here is a picture of me and Katie Dale at the Mass Book Launch party that happens on the Saturday night of the conference. SCBWI members do love a good fancy dress party and with a theme of Seriously Funny who else could I choose but silly old Pooh Bear? 

Katie's books are really fun. We loved Mumnesia in our house - it is a well thumbed book and I know this new one, The Never Ending Birthday, will be just as good. Did you know that Katie's sister and her mum are both children's authors too? They were all launching their new books at the party. What a lovely family!

NB: SCBWI is not just for published authors and illustrators. We have people at all stages of their journey and it is a life changing organisation to be a part of. You can find out more by clicking here: Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators - British Isles.