Children’s book

Flaunt it Friday

~ my word (s) ~ 5 Comments

Having completed the first draft of my next children’s book, I felt a bit daunted at the thought of starting the editing process. I remembered I still had access to some online talks on editing and decided to listen to the one on developmental editing.

It occurred to me as I listened that I knew how to do this. There was nothing in the tutorial that I couldn’t do, or hadn’t done before. It felt reassuring to have a way forward.

I’m pleased to say I’ve made a start. I’ve been through the whole manuscript noting areas I’d identified in square brackets that needed research or clarification. I’m now halfway through reading the manuscript to check for inconsistencies. That feels like quite an achievement.

What are you pleased about this week?

Focussed on editing

Publication Day

~ my word (s) ~ 24 Comments
https://troubador.co.uk/bookshop/middle-grade/the-clocker

The day has arrived. Today, 28th April 2026 my children’s book, The Clocker, is officially published. There were times when I nearly gave up, days when I didn’t believe it would ever happen, struggles and challenges along the way but I couldn’t be happier that I’ve made it. I am a published children’s author.

I have already had some very positive reviews and it’s an amazing feeling to read that others enjoy what you’ve written. Although writing a book involves a lot of time being shut away, tapping the keys on your PC, the help of others can often go unnoticed. I’ve found Troubador Publishing to be an incredibly supportive, knowledgeable and helpful team. My partner, my daughter, wider family, friends, and writing group, Let’s Write, have all played a part. Without turning this into an Oscar speech (!) thank you to everyone.

As well as now having a box of my own copies of the book, Troubador distribute to bookshops around the UK. The Clocker is on Amazon in paperback and kindle formats, and on Apple Books for those with Apple devices. If you do purchase and read the book, please do write a review.

I am available around The Midlands for author events and to visit schools to read extracts and talk about my book. Please contact me via my Contact page Contact me

I’m a published children’s author