I was born in 1966. My father was in the army so when I was young I travelled a lot. A LOT. I've lived in Malasia, Hong Kong (twice), Berlin and Norway. Plus I studied languages at university, so I've spent lots of time in France and Italy. I totally recommend them both for the weather and the food. Now I live in Wandsworth, which is a green and leafy bit of south London. I've been here for ten years, which for me is like, forever.I have four children: two boys and two teenage step-daughters, who help me with the books. A bit. Although to be honest, my ten year-old, who's the biggest reader, prefers Robert Muchamore and Derek Landy. And the youngest likes Star Wars Lego books. My favourite holiday destinations are the south of Cornwall (for the friends and the pebbly beaches) and Provence (for the sunshine and the endless fields of lavender).   I’m allergic to cats, but I love them anyway.I’m sadly addicted to fashion magazines. I have made some serious fashion mistakes over the years. Honestly. Many, many of them. And worn one or two outfits I’m proud of.The most precious thing I ever wore was the grey wool pinafore dress my mother made for me when I was about five (see picture). My grannies also knitted and smocked. Anything they made for me is special.My favourite colour is raspberry pink. My favourite fabric is velvet. (My wedding dress was … raspberry pink velvet. Actually more cranberry, but close.) My favourite word is ‘semi-autobiographical’I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was about seven. Writing is my passion and my ultimate dream has always been to make girls (and boys) get lost in my stories the way I got lost in books when I was growing up. And that’s happened. It’s weird – totally weird – when your ultimate dream comes true.I love visiting schools and festivals, so if you’d like me to come and talk, ask me! I can’t promise I’ll come, but I’ll try.When I grow up I want to be a children’s author. Oh look, I am! Yay yay yay!
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