Having taken a breather from editing my next children’s book, this week I feel I’m back on track. The break has enabled me to feel uncluttered, almost like the feeling you get when you clear out a room, or a cupboard.
I’ve had some new ideas, tightened up the writing in places and rethought aspects of the story. As well as seeking professional feedback, my partner and biggest champion, has read the whole book, giving me useful insights.
What are you pleased with this week?
This week’s Flaunt it Friday is about something I did last Friday. When my children’s book, The Clocker, My Books was first published, I decided I’d ask the primary school both my grandsons went to if they’d like me to do an author visit.
I have fond memories of meeting my grandsons at the school gates, the friendliness and kindness of the staff. When they enthusiastically accepted, asking me if I could do a session each with Years 5 and 6, I was delighted. It seemed such a fitting place to share my book.
The summer weather had other ideas. On the week we’d arranged, the school suggested we reschedule, saying it was unbearably hot. Though disappointed, I was also relieved as I was struggling in the extreme heat.
Finally, last Friday, the visit went ahead. It was such a thrill to receive an enthusiastic response from the children and staff. Having read many blogs and social media posts about children not reading, here were children who loved reading and writing. The teaching staff were so encouraging, offering books that appealed to wide tastes; from story books, to factual books about animals and football.
I had the most wonderful day and I’m still feeling motivated by the glorious curiosity and creativity of the children I met. One of the teachers commented that it was great for her to see the class writing freely, without limitations or focus on form, structure or grammar.
I urge any children’s authors to visit schools; it’s a truly enriching experience.
What are you pleased about this week? I was very touched by a review of my book, The Clocker, My Books from a 8 year old boy who is passionate about his own hens.
I’m really proud of myself because this is the biggest book I have ever read in my life, the review starts.
I feel really bad for Nev, you know? His mom left just like that and I don’t like that he gets bullied ‘cause I know how that feels. My young reviewer continues that he’s glad Nev has his hens, Samantha and his dad. He’s funny. I like how he talks obvs.
Finally, my wonderful reviewer says, this is a really good book for kids to read … you know how you say you don’t always know the full story … like how bullies can bully ‘cause they’re having a hard time too? That made me think a lot.
What an insightful boy. Comments like these make all the time spent writing worthwhile.
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?
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
