Free writing is an important part of the writing process. Being able to write freely, and without judgement, is something that is not often allowed for within the school curriculum. And I’m not having a go at teachers, or the system, about this. I understand how it’s...
There is a common misconception that once a child can read confidently on their own, you should stop reading aloud to them. Most parents stop reading to their child by the time they are eight years-old, with only 19% of 8-10's being read to on a daily basis. Research...
It's going to be a busy year for me, as an author. I have not one, but two books coming out, the first of which has its official publication day on World Book Day (March 5th). If you're a regular reader of this blog, you may have heard of the Time School series. I've...
As we approach the end of the year, I always take the time to think about my intentions for the year ahead and whether I stuck to, or achieved, what I had set out to for the current year. It’s also the end of a decade and this is a good opportunity for all of us to...
Working with writers has the potential to improve the enjoyment, attitudes and confidence of pupils and teachers in both reading and writing, according to National Literacy Trust research. Data collected by the National School Library Survey, along with National...
Unleash your creativity by rediscovering your inner child. Creativity is about putting your imagination to work. And when it comes to imagination, let’s face it, kids have it by the bucket load. As a creative writing tutor for children, I see this all the time and it...
My Year 6 son is currently studying Oranges in No Mans Land at school and my Year 8 daughter had chosen it from the library. As they were both reading it, my interest was piqued, and I sat down and read the whole book in one sitting. My daughter, spurred on by how...
The first cup of coffee of the day. Waking up and realising it's the weekend and you don't have to get up so early. Clean, fresh sheets on the bed, cool and crisp. Wrapping up in a blanket when it's cold outside. Thick, knitted socks. Losing myself in my writing....
I am sitting in a bedroom of a house dating back to the 1600s. The upstairs floor is so warped that my desk is at a slight angle. The white-washed walls are cracked and anything but smooth or symmetrical. I adore this room. It's cosy and charming and I keep finding...
Do you see social media as a positive thing? A recent discussion with friends got me thinking about my own relationship with social media. Some of these friends have come off it completely, but I'm not sure I could do that, or even if I would want to. What about you?...
Childish Spirits, the first in a series of ghostly, mystery tales, follows Ellie and Edward as they embark on an unusual friendship and set of adventures.
My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece is a powerful tale of how grief and loss affects those who are left behind. Ten year-old Jamie was only five when his sister, Rose, was killed. He doesn't really remember her, and as such, does not grieve for her in the way her twin...
Many children have no problems coming up with a story idea. Others can think of ideas, but struggle to write them down. Then there are those who not only find coming up with ideas an arduous task, they are reluctant to write at all. I’ve met all these types of...
I’d like to discuss why I think it’s useful for children to learn about creative writing from an author, but first, I’m going to start by telling you about my favourite part of the creative writing process. Initially, it’s exciting when an idea comes to me. When this...
The Lost Magician, by Piers Torday, feels like a cross between Narnia and the Hunger Games. Here’s why.
Helping your child to prepare for writing is about more than just making sure they can write before they start school. A common mistake many parents make, especially first time ones, is to compare their child to other children. I'm as guilty of this as any one, as I...
It’s a miserable, damp Sunday morning. Too early to be out and about, but when your teen has a job and needs transport, there’s not much you can do about that. The rain is pelting the car. The automatic lights have come on, even though it’s almost 9 a.m. It should...
Creative Writing Summer Workshops at Storymakers This summer, I will be running one week of workshops for 7-10 year-olds and in addition, a week of English Revision for Year 5’s. Please go to the Storymakers website to book. The summer holiday creative writing...
“Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know which one you’re gonna get.” Remember who said that? It was Forrest Gump. I love that film don’t you? I find it impossible to say that quote, though, without adding the southern lilt (even if it’s in my head). I love...
French novelist, Marcel Proust, famously wrote about the childhood memories that came flooding back to him when he dipped a Madeleine in a cup of tea. He had been feeling down up until this point, but the taste of the cake evoked in him, memories of being a child when...