Other writing
Kind people occasionally let me talk on their platforms. Here are some of my guest appearances:
Little Blog of Library Treasures
I was interviewed by the lovely Emma Suffield for her blog, and honoured to be among her last guests for the slot. Thank you, Emma!
Love Reading 4 Kids on why Crossing the Line had to be in verse format.
When I decided to write about county lines, I knew I had to write it in verse. Why? Because if I was going to get the message across to 14-year-old boys, it had to be accessible, pacey and pack a punch. Sounds like a contradiction in terms, doesn’t it? Accessible verse. And yet, it works. Verse novels are magic for disengaged or challenged readers . . .
Book Clubs in Schools: The Power of Verse Novels: Igniting a Love for Reading in Teenagers
Engaging teen readers can be challenging. Too many distractions, re-wired attention spans, competing interests and the conviction that reading’s not for them. But verse novels offer a breath of fresh air in the school library, taking the power of poetry and combining it with the gripping storytelling of a novel . . .
Write Mentor Magazine, Issue 13: Writing for teens: Why Less is More
I explain a bit about what went on under the hood when I wrote Crossing the Line in verse, to reach its target audience of teenage boys.What’s different about writing a verse novel? (Subscription required)
I chat with Jamie Greenwood about verse novels, writing for teens, rejections and the whole publishing rollercoaster. I also talk about the origin of Crossing the Line and the real life events that inspired it.
I had the best time being interviewed by Jo Court and the wonderful Betty, who loves my character Ravi as much as I do.
The School Librarian Journal, Volume 70, Number 4, Winter 2022
What are the warning signs that a child may be involved in county lines, and what can a school librarian do to help? Autumn 2023 issue (subscription only)