The sun is shining and there are daffodils on my mantelpiece. It must be spring!
In February I attended the Bristol Teen Book Award reading party. I’d never been to Bristol before and fell in love with its hills, architecture, harbour, quirky cafes and colourful student vibe. I will definitely be returning to Bristol when I can. Not only did I get to attend the Bristol Teen Book Award but I also had time wander around the city (I only asked for directions once). I even managed to squeeze in a cup of tea with the lovely Elane from I Am In Print.
At Bristol central library, I spoke on the author panel and gave a workshop to a group of Year Nine pupils from local secondary schools. I talked about being an author and how to write creatively. We discussed the decisions it is helpful to make before beginning a story and how I wrote Notes on My Family.
At the end of February, I was at the Faversham Literary festival in conversation with Lucy Strange. (This is where I took the above boat pic). We chatted about our books and took questions from our inspiring audience. Lucy’s book, Our Castle by the Sea, is about a family living in a lighthouse during the Second World War. It’s very pacy, full of suspense and intrigue.
In March I was delighted to be asked to take part in the Author Slam at the Essex Book Festival where I met a number of local authors. I grew up in Essex and it was lovely to be invited back.
Also in March, I gave a webinar with I Am In Print. Each month I Am In Print offer a webinar from a different author or industry professional, meaning you get the chance to ask any writing or publishing related questions from the comfort of your own home. Yep, you can turn up in your pyjamas and drink your own coffee. Do check out their upcoming webinars.
I am very pleased to announce that I will soon be offering a mentoring service in collaboration with the Riff Raff. If you are interested in the Riff Raff’s mentoring scheme please go to the mentor page on the Riff Riff website where you can view my profile. Alternatively you can contact the Riff Riff via their contact page. https://www.the-riffraff.com/the-riff-raff-mentoring-scheme
Speaking of mentoring, I am also offering one aspiring writer of YA or MG the opportunity to work with me for free on their query package which will include first chapters, synopsis and covering letter. For more information and to apply please visit the #WriteMentor website or view my #WriteMentor blog post. https://write-mentor.com
Emily
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