Red House Children's Book Award

Questions & Answers

How do you feel about being shortlisted for the Red House Children's Book Award?

I am delighted to be shortlisted for the Red House Children's Book Award. It's of particular significance as the books are chosen by the young readers.

Which is your favourite jungle creature?

Oh that's a difficult decision. I think I'd opt for the giraffe; it manages to be both elegant and ungainly at the same time.

How would you describe A Very Strange Creature in four words?

A most surprising story.

What's the best part of writing books for children

Realising that the idea or image that has popped into my head might be the beginning of a story.

What is your favourite children's book?

The Story of Ferdinand by Munroe Leaf.

Where is your favourite place in the world?

The Coromandel in New Zealand where I lived as a child, India, Laos and the north coast of Cornwall.

What's your favourite joke?

How can you tell an elephant's been in the fridge? By his footprints in the butter.

If you could have any super power what would it be?

I'd have wings.

What makes you laugh?

When I'm with friends we laugh about all sorts of things.

Who is your hero?

As a child it was Grace Darling, the lighthouse keeper's daughter.