Frequently Asked Questions

I’m a teacher. Will you send my class a message?

Yes! If you contact me, I will respond with a short message you can read out to your class or print. Please note that due to my busy home and work life I am unable to record video messages.

Can you provide display materials for my class, school or library?

Please approach my publisher (Usborne in the UK) with this type of request.

Can I buy a signed book from you?

Yes! I can send a personalised signed copy of one of my books for £12 including post and packaging (UK only). Contact me for details.

I’m a book blogger / vlogger. Can you send me a review copy of your book?

Please approach my publisher (Usborne in the UK) with this type of request.

Will you respond if I write you a letter?

Yes! It can take a while for post to reach me via my publisher (their address is on my contact form), but I love responding to written letters (please remember to include a return address).

How and why did you become a writer?

I loved reading and writing at school, but I also loved science. I chose to become an exploration geologist, then a science teacher. It wasn’t until I took some time off teaching to have children, in my thirties, that I discovered creative writing again. At first I wrote stories just for fun, and for my children to enjoy, but I developed a passion for it and worked hard to develop my skills. After ten years, and many unpublished books, I finally found a wonderful agent and publisher!

What inspires you?

Folk and fairy stories are a huge inspiration for me, especially the Slavic tales my Prussian grandmother told me when I was young. But I’m also inspired by my family and friends, the people I meet, the landscapes around me and the places I visit, nature and wildlife, clouds and weather, museums and galleries, books, news stories, magazine articles, movies, documentaries, art and music. I believe inspiration can be found everywhere!

How long does it take you to write a book?

Every book is different. As an example, I might write a first draft in a few months, but a book takes many drafts and lots of edits. The whole process from start to finish might take around eighteen months to two years.

What was your favourite book as a child?

The Moomins books by Tove Jansson. I love their mix of beauty, whimsy and philosophy.

I’m a writer. Will you read my manuscript and give me feedback?

I’m sorry but due to my busy home and work life I’m unable to do this. If you are writing a children’s book, I recommend seeking support and feedback through your local SCBWI community.

I’m a writer about to be published. Will you endorse my book with a quote?

Please approach my agent with this type of request.

I’m an illustrator and would like to work on a book with you.

I’m currently busy working on my next contracted book, and my publisher will be choosing the illustrator for this. Details of how you can make an illustrator submission to Usborne can be found here.