Another month and another Authors’ Round Robin! And this month the topic is… How do you encourage children to read? When I was a child I read voraciously. To be honest, I probably read a bit too much. You may think that’s not possible, but there is a whole big world for children to explore…… Continue reading How do you encourage children to read?
It’s time for another Round Robin, where a group of authors each post on the same topic on the same day (but not necessarily the same time zone :) ) This week’s topic has been chosen by author Rhobin Courtright… Where do stories come from? I’ve always found it fascinating how we can imagine whole…… Continue reading Where do stories come from? The magic of writer inspiration.
Today I’m welcoming the fabulously named Iva Valentino to my blog. What a great name for a writer, Iva! And I love the title of Iva’s new novel for children: Black Cats and Ballet Slippers. When I was at school, any book with the word ballet in the title got my immediate attention. I’ve brought…… Continue reading Good to meet you…author Iva Valentino
I’m very excited about to getting to know author Sandy Carlson today. Sandy is a teacher and author of children’s books, but – even more exciting than this! – Sandy’s website states: I have climbed mountains, swum in oceans, and run down sand dunes. I’ve outrun wildfires, hid in a basement from a tornado, cleaned debris…… Continue reading Good to meet you…author Sandy Carlson
Tomorrow is the anniversary of the battle of Fort McHenry, which was used in the ‘War of 1812’ (although this battle happened in 1814 – try not to get confused) to successfully defend Chesapeake Bay against a bombardment by the British Navy. I’m glad to report that, although there are wars in lots of other…… Continue reading The anniversary of The Star Spangled Banner
I first wrote this post for my friend the brilliant J.Q. Roses’s blog. I’m reposting it today as an excuse to show some of the wonderful covers that Puffin books produce. In fact some of these covers have become so iconic that a collection of one hundred of them is available as a boxed set…… Continue reading The fabulous covers of Puffin Books
Some of you may remember children’s author Penny Estelle from when she visited last year. It’s lovely to welcome Penny again today to discuss her children’s time-slip novels, and Penny has very generously offered to give away a copy of her novel to a lucky commenter. Good to see you again, Penny! * Good morning…… Continue reading Introducing children’s historical author Penny Estelle, plus giveaway
It’s blowing a gale here in northern England today. The streets are dark, wet and miserable, and we’re a long way from my guest’s California Sun. I’ve turned the central heating up and put my Beach Boys CD on, but somehow I don’t think this is going to cut it. So I’m hoping a nice…… Continue reading Good to meet you…author Mikki Sadil
Judith Kerr is one of the greatest children’s illustrators of our time, and a brilliant storyteller. A couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to listen to her talk at the Edinburgh Book Festival. Although she’s now ninety years old, she had the whole audience gripped. When the hour was over – and it…… Continue reading A fabulous storyteller with a remarkable life
Penny Ehrenkranz is a talented author, who writes for both adults and children. I’m delighted to have Penny and her story-telling here today, as I’m expecting my little niece, and I’m hoping Penny will be able to help keep her entertained. I also have some buns and lemonade all ready, so excuse me talking with…… Continue reading Good to meet you…author Penny Ehrenkranz
Helena Fairfax 