Three of my favourite disturbing novels – along with some disturbing books recommended by authors and other book lovers!

How to write a fairy tale: the main ingredients, some ideas to get you started, and advice from leading writers and lovers of fairy tales.

My review of The Crossing by Manjeet Mann, winner of the Costa Children's Book Award 2021; the painful story of two young adults from different continents.

I find it hard to believe that my first book was published 40 years ago. What better time for a post compiling my 40 all-time favourite books?

My review of ‘The Chime Seekers’ by Ross Montgomery, a magical adventure story about a brave boy and his changeling sister.

Exclusive winter haikus. Explore winter in all its loveliness and harshness through the eyes of 8 of our finest authors, poets and songwriters.

Writing ghost stories: a look at the history of ghost stories, why we love them, the basic elements of how to write a ghost story, and some chilling examples.

My review of ‘The Song That Sings Us’, an epic environmental adventure story by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Greenaway award winner Jackie Morris.

Dr Thomas Barnardo meets Jim Jarvis – useful information for teachers presenting my novel Street Child as a KS2 book in schools.

My review of the 2021 Greenaway Medal winner, ‘Small in the City’ by Canadian author and illustrator Sydney Smith.

My review of the 2021 Carnegie Medal winner, ‘Look Both Ways’ by the American author Jason Reynolds.

Writing haikus: I show you the rules, explain their structure, give you useful tips for writing haikus and present Japanese examples.