For almost two decades, writing stories and leading accompanying developmental workshops has been a primary focus of mine. I have founded two active storytelling businesses—Drama Llamas and Animateys—both dedicated to inspiring children to learn and grow through active story experiences. A few years ago, I took a step back from my entrepreneurial endeavours to focus on developing my skills as a picture book writer (and to get a sensible day job).

Many people think writing a picture is easy, but to do it well takes years of graft, practice, critique, rejection and single-minded resilience. With around just 500 words to work with, crafting a story that captivates both a small child and their adult from start to finish is no mean feat. Every word has to earn its place; the language must flow and carry a rhythm that comes into its own when read aloud. Picture book authors must consider pacing, use page turns to maximum effect, and find fresh, surprising ways to subvert expectations. And of course, they must think visually: the text must work seamlessly with the illustrations—each enhancing the other to bring the story fully to life.

I’ve been on my picture book writing journey around four years now, and have gained such a lot from the process. I’ve completed various courses, including the brilliant Golden Egg Academy’s twelve-month ‘Writing for Young Children’ course. I’ve been mentored by various editors and authors over the years, I’m a member of two amazing critique groups, and I’m delighted to say that five of my stories have now been recognised in competitions, one of them three times:

• A shortlisting in I Am In Print ‘25 (out of 595 PB entries, many with stories per entry) - STICK RUN

• Runner-up and a shortlisting in WriteMentor (out of 450 PB entries) - SHOW-STOPPA-STOUNDING! and STICK RUN

• Second place in SCBWI Slushpile challenge ‘25, - STICK RUN

• Second Place second in Writing Magazine ‘24, - BOBBLE AND PIP

• 2x longlistings in Searchlight ‘24. - GARRY AND THE BIG BARKING BALL BONANZA (new title: DOG! BALL!) and MOPPIT AND MAISY: THE MOONLIGHT MONSTERS

I write both in prose and in fast-paced rhyme. I enjoy adventurous and heartwarming stories, but overall, my preference tends to lean toward funny ones. Thinking back to my live storytelling days, this has always been the case—there was nothing better than seeing a whole group of little faces laugh (sometimes raucously) at the parts I had hoped they would!

My years of live sessions have helped me develop my voice, which now very much shapes my picture book writing. I aim to evoke the same emotional connection with my audience through my writing (and eventually the pictures) as I do during live storytelling performances.

I am currently looking for representation.