It’s my last post and I’m sorry to say goodbye. So sorry that I’ve been putting off writing it. Now it’s super late and I’m racing against the clock and just realised (at 9.30 a.m) that I didn’t press the right button last night, so that’s why this is overdue! Mulling over what to write … Continue reading
It’s my last post on here. I’ve had an absolute blast chatting to you all every month and I’ll miss it… but I’m so glad to have had the chance to write for this blog in the first place. I never saw myself as a blogger. I have zero confidence so it always comes as … Continue reading
My daughter is thirteen. Last week she came home from school upset because her group of close friends were having a party and hadn’t invited her and one other girl. They had lied about what they were doing that afternoon (they had a half day) and then proceeded to post photos and videos of the … Continue reading
My book, The Awkward Autumn of Lily McLean was published two days ago, which feels both exciting and nerve wracking. The book launch is on the 29th of March in Waterstone’s Braehead and my nerves couldn’t be more wracked about that! Public speaking isn’t my thing. In fact, I’d go as far as to say … Continue reading
Hi everyone! I’m feeling very, very appreciative at the moment! Well, I always try to focus on the great things in my life and our beautiful world, as you know, but right now I’m so full of gratitude I could burst! I’m going to share a few of the things on my list, and hope … Continue reading
I have exactly 30 minutes to write this. Starting now! I have been talking to my Creative Writing students this week about time management. Time management is one of those things writers seem to struggle with greatly, and I am no exception. Having a new batch of students made me realise this is something I … Continue reading
When you’re creating, things don’t always go according to plan. You can have a great idea that doesn’t work once you flesh it out, a wonderful first draft that won’t develop, or even a story that’s several drafts in yet refusing to behave. Sound familiar? Well, take a deep breath and relax – because this … Continue reading
Last week I had a different sort of week. I didn’t do any of my normal duties or routines. I didn’t go into the school where I work supporting readers each week, I didn’t cook everyone’s tea back at home each night, and I didn’t even put out the crazy mess that is the recycling … Continue reading
This is a blog in two parts. Part One – Hiding Sometimes, particularly when the evenings are getting dark and the politics of the world are getting darker, I have to find a place to hide. I don’t mean literally hide. I think my husband might want to know where I am eventually. Or my … Continue reading
Happy Halloween! Let’s celebrate this most frightening of festivals by talking about the scariest thing writers face in their day-to-day working lives. Not rejection letters from publishers, or fierce editorial feedback, or even negative reviews. The scariest thing is the blank page. Every writer I have met – from young beginners to experienced pros – … Continue reading
GirlsHeartBooks 