What was your favourite childhood book and why?
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White had a profound effect on me when I read it as a child as it was the first book to make me cry. I remember thinking how incredible it was that just pieces of paper, covered with words, had the ability to make me feel so emotional! That was when I first realised how powerful books could be.
Which of your own books is your favourite and why?
I think most authors would say that this is a really difficult question to answer! I usually say The Goldfish Boy as it was my first to be published. The feeling of seeing my book in a book shop for the very first time will stay with me forever! I think The Light Jar has been my favourite to write. It's quite dark and there are a few twists and turns. I love to take a reader in a direction they weren't expecting!
Why do you choose to read?
For me, reading is a way to relax and also a way to create films in your very own head! Even if we read the same book the pictures we imagine will look different to all of us and I love that! Also you can't beat the feeling of being really engrossed in a book, the feeling of loss when you turn the last page, and the excitement of beginning another one!
