Shortlisted for the Best Crime Novel for Children

I am so thrilled to announce I have such exciting news. 

There is only one award for crime writing for children - -and I am so thrilled to say The Floating Witch Mystery has made the shortlist!

 

Huge congratulations to all the shortlisted authors. There are amazing books on that list and I'm not only honoured but completely flabbergasted to be on it!

Have you read The Floating Witch Mystery yet?

The Floating Witch Mystery is a fantasy thriller set in a riverside community threatened by dark magic - or so brave school reporter, Veena Vale, believes.

Only no one takes any notice of her warnings that a curse threatens her beloved island home, or that popular newcomer Scott is behind the threat. Veena believes Scott is using dangerous mind control magic to cover his tracks and wreck her home. But why?

And how can Veena convince her beloved riverside community that they need to band together to fight the forces of dark magic - or even begin to save her beloved home, when no one believes her? No one truly believes real magic even exists.

This is a brilliant, funny and fast paced adventure story that children will love' – Books for Topics

Can Veena find a way to defeat a sinister sorcerer, discover his true plans and save the island home she loves when she has no magic of her own to fight back with?

Filled with adventure, friendship, unexpected twists and a sprinkling of magic, this is an atmospheric mystery story of a precious island community under threat. And a sharp-witted and brave girl, a cynical cat and a reluctant witch who will stop at nothing to save it.

 And why not explore my other fantasy crime adventures?

 

 

Honoured to be judging a unique prize for children's writing

This year I'm so excited that I've been invited to be a judge for The Branford Boase Award.

This is awarded annually to the most promising book for children of seven and upward by a first-time novelist. Plus, uniquely, it marks the important contribution of the editor in identifying and nurturing new talent.

The award has an emphasis on the craft of writing and the crucial role played by editors, highlights and promotes outstanding writing for children. Winning authors and editors are recognised as setting standards in publishing excellence.

I cannot wait to start to read all the shortlisted books and meeting my fellow judges.

I am such a huge supporter of anything that promotes reading, particularly in young people. And as a writer for children, I understand many of the particular challenges of writing books for this particular, very tricky audience.

I know I'm going to spend the next few months reading an awful lot of really great books!