Gallery One

Travel

Gallery Two

Adventure

Gallery Three

Journey

  • Scottish Association of Writers 2025

    Scottish Association of Writers 2025

    I’m honoured to have been invited to adjudicate this year’s Scottish Association of Writers competition for writing for the Under 7s. Working through the entries has been a joy and I’m looking forward to announcing the winners at this year’s conference at the end of March.   I’ve also been invited to give a workshop…

  • Feedback from The International Page Turner Book Awards 2024

    Feedback from The International Page Turner Book Awards 2024

    I don’t usually enter competitions, but I decided it wouldn’t hurt to submit one book from both of my genres. I decided on Abigail Returns and The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical, and then I pretty much forgot about it. So, you can imagine how blown away I was when I got the email…

  • Closing the Chapter on 2024

    Closing the Chapter on 2024

    Hello from a cold and frosty Perthshire! As the year comes to a close, I hope 2024 has been a good one for you. I’m delighted to be ending the year on a high. This year has seen my author business grow and expand in ways I could never have imagined, bringing with it exciting…

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    Professional Mentoring For Children’s Authors From Award Winner Pauline Tait, On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Pauline Tait, acclaimed children’s author and romantic suspense novelist, expands her author business to include professional mentoring for children’s authors.   When I was younger, I would walk past my local Waterstones store and…

  • Page Turner Book Awards Finalist 2024

    Page Turner Book Awards Finalist 2024

    Woohoo!   I’m absolutely thrilled to have been named as a finalist in The Page Turner Book Awards 2024.   This is a super big deal for my (already award-winning) picture book.   Winners will be announced for the varying genres at the online awards ceremony in November. But, whatever happens, I’m over the moon…

  • A Summer to Remember

    A Summer to Remember

    After two and a half months of jam packed events, I’ve plumbed for one blog post that covers them all. From the hugely successful launch event of Anna’s Promise in Waterstones in Perth, to the equally successful Waterstones, indie bookshops and libraries tour that came to an end just as the Waterstones tour with my…

  • The Quair Magazines

    The Quair Magazines

    Thank you to the The Quair Magazines – Covering Highland Perthshire & Strathearn for their feature in both the Atholl & Breadalbane, and Crieff & Comrie editions. Anna’s Promise is out! And you can grab your copy in all good book shops or online.  

  • Anna’s Promise is beginning to arrive into Waterstones Stores

    Anna’s Promise is beginning to arrive into Waterstones Stores

    Having received an email from Waterstones in Braehead, Glasgow, asking if I would pop in to sign copies of Anna’s Promise, we had a trip down over the weekend. Popping into the Perth store on our way home. I’m thrilled that copies are now arriving into Waterstones stores and I will be releasing dates of…

  • Exciting Announcement and Expansion of my Author Business

    Exciting Announcement and Expansion of my Author Business

    Six months ago, I announced that I had been helping fellow authors with their writing and the publishing process for some time. The amount of authors being sent my way was increasing and, as a way of managing my time, I had decided to officially add mentoring children’s author to my author business. This allowed…

  • A Meeting With A Difference

    A Meeting With A Difference

    The thing about the publishing world is that our audiences, fellow author friends, valued members of our team, and network connections are not only spread around the country, they’re spread around the world. So when the lovely Isabelle Knight messaged to say she would be passing through Edinburgh, the opportunity to catch-up was not to…

  • The Courier

    The Courier

    Thank you to The Courier for running a feature on the release of Anna’s Promise. Copyright laws mean I am unable to share the article in full. But they did also mention the upcoming launch in Waterstones on the 31st of May, which I’m very grateful for.

  • Scottish Field Magazine

    Scottish Field Magazine

    I was thrilled to feature in the Scottish Field Magazine for a second time. This time it was all about books that have influenced my writing career and books I enjoy as a reader.   Author Pauline Tait on the influence of American writer Nora Roberts in helping her believe she could write in two…

  • Portobello Book Blog

    Portobello Book Blog

    I was thrilled to be featured, yet again, by Portobello Book Blog. #ThreeTwoOne quick-fire questions…   Tell me THREE things about your latest book Following on from the success of Abigail Returns, Anna’s Promise is the second in The Maren Bay series. Once again, readers will be transported to some of my favourite locations on the Isle…

  • CHILDREN’S AUTHORS – FINISHING THE YEAR ON A HIGH

    …and my second published article this month is… CHILDREN’S AUTHORS – FINISHING THE YEAR ON A HIGH There’s no two ways about it, if you want to be a successful author you have to treat your writing as a business. And my latest article is all about finishing the year strong, with increased book sales,…

  • THE JOY AND ‘HOW TO’ OF WRITING CHRISTMAS PICTURE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN…

    I have had two magazine articles published this month. The first article is… THE JOY AND ‘HOW TO’ OF WRITING CHRISTMAS PICTURE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN… I was asked to write this article as both an award-winning children’s author and a writing mentor to children’s authors. Being a children’s author is an immense privilege. If done…

  • Both The Courier & Press and Journal Hold Festive National Competition for The Fairy in the Kettle Trilogy

    Both The Courier & Press and Journal Hold Festive National Competition for The Fairy in the Kettle Trilogy

    The Fairy in the Kettle Trilogy became the festive competition for both publications this year, with each having three signed sets to give away. All were wrapped in festive ribbon and all included and wooden Christmas decoration. Congratulations to the winning entries, I hope your young readers enjoy their trip to Bramble Glen… and an…

  • Award-Winning Picture Book Trilogy

    Award-Winning Picture Book Trilogy

    The Fairy in the Kettle Trilogy is a sentimental achievement that harks back to my childhood. I don’t often think of these books without thinking of my grandad and his garden. His pride and joy, it was overflowing with vegetables, fruit trees, and his greenhouse transported me to another world, wild and exotic. Yes, there was the…

  • Waterstones Kirkcaldy – 19th October

    Waterstones Kirkcaldy – 19th October

    I’m still in the depths of editing, but after months of living in what has felt like a building site, I’m not going to fret about it. We will soon be out the other side and all our hard work will have been worth it. Hopefully the house will be finished (all but one room)…

  • The Perthshire Magazine

    The Perthshire Magazine

    The Perthshire Magazine is an online magazine that falls into my inbox each month. Full of spectacular photography and articles covering all that Perthshire has to offer, it’s one I enjoy reading with a cuppy. However, when July’s issue dropped in, I was thrilled to see Abigail Returns sitting mysteriously across a lovely double page…

  • The Privilege of Writing for Children

    The Privilege of Writing for Children

    As the article appeared in the August edition of Writers’ Narrative, an online magazine for writers…        With a background in Primary Literacy Support, Pauline Tait is passionate about encouraging children in their reading and writing.  Pauline shares why it is a privilege for her to write for children.   To say writing for…

  • Scottish Field Magazine

    Scottish Field Magazine

    I’m thrilled that Scottish Field Magazine has chosen to review of Abigail Returns in the September 2023 issue… “This Skye-based mystery has stunning descriptions of scenery and as many twists and turns as the winding road of the Quiraing itself. Pauline Tait has a talent for making the fictional seem real as everything from Abigail’s…

  • On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, author Pauline Tait shares the inspiration behind her new book, Abigail Returns, and her creative writing process.

    On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, author Pauline Tait shares the inspiration behind her new book, Abigail Returns, and her creative writing process.

    I was delighted to be interviewed by JJ Barnes of The Table Read (“the best book magazine in the UK”) on all things writing and the publication of Abigail Returns. It’s not too long a read, just follow the link below… Author Interview – Pauline Tait – Abigail Returns – (thetablereadmagazine.co.uk)

  • Launch Event in Waterstones Perth for Abigail Returns – A suspenseful mystery that’s not short on romance

    Launch Event in Waterstones Perth for Abigail Returns – A suspenseful mystery that’s not short on romance

    The 2nd of June saw a family, friends and books lovers alike gathering in Waterstones Perth for the launch of Abigail Returns.     I was beyond thrilled that Waterstones hosted the event and just as thrilled to see everyone who came along including those who started out being supporters of both genres of my…

  • Author Interview and Book Review with Greta Yorke

    Author Interview and Book Review with Greta Yorke

    This month, I have invited Scottish Author Greta Yorke along to Kids Carousel to tell us about her books and writing career. Thank you for joining us Greta, please tell us a little about yourself and your writing journey. My first adventure into was with poetry which was published in church magazine, then I became…

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    Abigail Returns (book one in the Maren Bay Series)   It has been an eventful week, to say the least, with the arrival of paperback copies of Abigail Returns, all while it enjoyed being #1 in Amazon’s Hot New Releases for financial thrillers. It has also been enjoying being in the top #10 in several other…

  • Stepping Into Spring– As Published in Mom’s Favorite Reads April 2023 Edition

    Stepping Into Spring– As Published in Mom’s Favorite Reads April 2023 Edition

    Stepping Into Spring by Pauline Tait (Novelist & Children’s Author)   In Scotland, we are about to step, rather eagerly, into spring. It is a time of rejuvenation, internal growth, and positive energy as our surroundings are brought back to life after the winter months. The dreary browns slowly dissipate, replaced with fresh greens and…

  • The Power of the Picture Book – as published in Mom’s Favorite Reads March 2023 edition

    The Power of the Picture Book – as published in Mom’s Favorite Reads March 2023 edition

    My article from the Kids Carousel section of the March 2023 edition of #1 international online magazine, Mom’s Favorite Reads, can be read in full below.   The Power of the Picture Book by Pauline Tait (Novelist & Children’s Author) Picture books have the power to enrapture children. To feed their imaginations and ignite their creativity.…

  • Subkit, New York – Author Interview

    Subkit, New York – Author Interview

    I was interviewed recently by Subkit from Brooklyn, New York on running an author business as part of their Go Solo programme. I haven’t worked with them, but was delighted to be interviewed.   It’s not too long a read. You can either read it in full here or follow the link to read it…

  • Author Interview by Portable Magic

    Author Interview by Portable Magic

    I was interviewed recently by Kate of Portable Magic and thought I would share it with you via my blog. You can either click here or read the full interview below. It was definitely the most varied interview I have done, we covered everything from writing to my favourite biscuit… Q&A with Pauline Tait Have you…

  • Looking back on recent events

    Looking back on recent events

    A look back at June and July I’m a bit late in getting round to this, but in my defence… it’s been a busy couple of months! I think it’s safe to say that the world is opening up again. June and July were reminiscent of pre-Covid times as I held book events around the…

  • An Unexpected and Exciting Announcement

    An Unexpected and Exciting Announcement

    An Unexpected and Exciting Announcement As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, my novel, A Life of Their Own, is being reissued as a second edition with a brand new cover pack shot, on 9th September. As an author, this is fantastic news and something I am thrilled about. But it is the recent…

  • When the universe takes charge!

    When the universe takes charge!

    When the universe takes charge!   Writing is such a curious occupation. We don’t always rock up to our desk and rattle through our word count or create the perfect settings or characters. Our brains need to be in the right gear for a start! Something the brilliant Becky Walsh, personal development comedian, can tell…

  • International Women’s Day

    International Women’s Day

    Women’s History Month   And then it was March, the month where we remember and celebrate the heroines who came before us and paved the way for a better world. Pioneers in medicine, engineering, technology, education, women’s rights, and so much more. All are deserving of a mention, but I am choosing to focus on just…

  • And November is done!

    And November is done!

    What A Month A feeling of normality crept in as both Publication Day and Book Week Scotland filled November with events and bookish outings. The publication of the second edition of The Fairy in the Kettle on the 16th was a celebration. This little picture book has become a firm favourite around the world. The…

  • Covering Important Issues

    Covering Important Issues

    Being a writer in the 21st century means we are active on multiple social media platforms. I use Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and, it was an article on Twitter that has resulted in my latest blog piece, which I have also shared as part of my recent newsletter. On 9th July this year, the Post…

  • #LibrariesAreEssential

    #LibrariesAreEssential

    I’m delighted to say that my little piece on why libraries are essential has made it into the Perthshire  Advertiser. This is great news as any publicity on this subject of Domestic Abuse, from anyone, is very much welcome. Copyright law means that I am unable to share the article but you can read it…

  • Why are libraries essential?

    Why are libraries essential?

    The Society of Authors has asked authors if they would offer their support and get behind CILIPS in supporting their campaign to save our libraries.  The children’s author within me became rattled that this question even had to be asked and, before I knew it, my fingers were rattling off the keyboard. My memories as…

  • And then came the snow!

    And then came the snow!

    It’s now been four months since we left our little patch of rural Perthshire to move into town and, foolishly, we were almost convinced that we’d melted into town living like ducks to water. Until that is, we had our first snow of winter! Thirty-one years after leaving my hometown, I returned convinced that town…

  • Brechin & Angus Virtual Book Festival

    Brechin & Angus Virtual Book Festival

    I’m a little late in posting this but between moving house and an abscess on my tooth, the last couple of months haven’t quite gone to plan. I was thrilled to be asked to take part in this year’s Brechin and Angus Book Festival which took place in November. Sarah Archibald has made an absolutely…

  • Life in Suburbia….eight weeks in!

    Life in Suburbia….eight weeks in!

    As if moving from the quiet of the Perthshire countryside into town wasn’t daunting enough, we chose to do it during a pandemic.     We moved in just as lockdown restrictions meant no one was allowed in our home. Family couldn’t visit and workmen, who were still working to a backlog after months of…

  • The Next Chapter…

    The Next Chapter…

    What do you do when you are in the depths of moving to a new house, and you find yourself with two and a half hours to spare? You write a blog! Inner, creative me has won over organised, there’s too much to do, must stay on track me as I park myself in a…

  • Handwritten Girl reviews A Life of Their Own

    Handwritten Girl reviews A Life of Their Own

    As part of a Random Things Blog Tour, Handwritten Girl has reviewed A Life of Their Own. “I loved this story, Kate’s a lovely character, a kind and warm person. It’s lovely to see her blossom and grow in confidence as the story progresses and she grows to find happiness. Her scenes with Matthew make…

  • Blog Tour Interview: A Life of Their Own

    Blog Tour Interview: A Life of Their Own

    I was delighted to be interviewed as part of a RandomThingsTours Blog Tour for my novel, A Life of Their Own. It was published via Twitter (link here) but for those who don’t use Twitter, the full interview can be found below. Blog tour: A Life Of Their Own By Silvia_reads June 17, 2020 Welcome to…

  • Homeschooling activities for 4 to 8 yr olds

    Homeschooling activities for 4 to 8 yr olds

    When Coronavirus first struck and our schools closed, I decided to create a new page on my website full of Fun Stuff to Download. I hoped it would play a small part in helping parents and children through the weeks and months that were to follow. Although all activities relate to my books, you won’t…

  • A busy month!

    A busy month!

    In the blink of an eye, we have gone from my book launch in September to the start of December. I am a little behind with my writing and admin to say the VERY least but, sometimes, our elderly relatives need our time far more. And, although it has meant that my writing has had…

  • A busy couple of weeks!

    A busy couple of weeks!

    A Life of Their Own came out on the 16th of this month and it has been all go since then. As we prepare for the official launch tomorrow I thought I would bring you up to date with all that has been going on.   Firstly, it made it onto a Waterstones’ table…a complete…

  • A Life of Their Own

    A Life of Their Own

    This is a page I’m delighted to be adding to my website as it means I have announced my latest publication. In contrast to my previous writing, I have been secretly typing away and have my first adult fiction novel out on 16th September. A Life of Their Own is a story I have been…

  • New Book News!

    New Book News!

    A LIFE OF THEIR OWN   I’m so excited to share this news with you!   In addition to my children’s books I have been quietly scribbling away at something quite different and, finally, I am able to share this with you. My novel, A Life of Their Own, will be released on September 16th,…

  • Highland Bookshop, Fort William – 13th July

    Highland Bookshop, Fort William – 13th July

    I headed west to Fort William for my latest event and after reading The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical it was all about the arts and crafts as little fairing finger puppets came to life and wands were made.  A huge thank you for having me and to everyone who came along. Note to…

  • Waterstones – Aviemore

    Waterstones – Aviemore

    Saturday 29th June I am always happy to have a trip to Aviemore and the beautiful Cairngorms but it was especially nice to visit with an event.  I was in the store reading my latest picture book, The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical. As always, my reading was followed by fun arts and crafts.…

  • Waterstones – Perth

    Waterstones – Perth

    Saturday 8th June – I had been looking forward to this event very much, as it was in my local Waterstones store! It was lovely to see so many returning Leona fans and read my latest book, The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical. Lots of fun was had by all and plenty of beautiful…

  • Waterstones – Stirling, Braehead & Oban

    Waterstones – Stirling, Braehead & Oban

    The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical! The fun continued this week with more Waterstones events! It’s been a busy few weeks with book events, and this last week was no different. Always fun, and great to meet new Leona fans as I returned to Waterstones’ stores. Thank you for having me and to everyone…

  • A Busy and ‘Booky’ weekend

    A Busy and ‘Booky’ weekend

    It has been an extremely busy weekend with four book events in three days, juggled surprisingly well with hectic family life and celebrations.  However, I have to get better at taking photos during events…I always get pics of the setup but forget once the events get going. I become so engrossed in the fun, something…

  • This week, it’s Library visits!

    This week, it’s Library visits!

    Granton Library, Edinburgh – Monday 15th May I was back down in Edinburgh today, this time to meet the P1 pupils of Granton Primary School within Granton Library. The warm sunny weather meant we could have our event outdoors in the library garden adding to the atmosphere. Thank you all for the warm welcome and…

  • Publication Day and Events

    Publication Day and Events

    Publication Day was 7th May I am a bit late with this but it has been a hectic week, to say the least. The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical is now published and available, worldwide and online, in all good books shops. It has been lovely hearing the reactions and feedback to this, the…

  • Almost there!

    Almost there!

    Almost there! With PUBLICATION DAY less than two weeks away it’s all go! The Fairy in The Kettle Gets Magical is out on 7th May and I am busily getting as much writing done as I can before my first event on the 8th. May and June are going to be extremely busy with Waterstones,…

  • As another World Book Day passes us by

    As another World Book Day passes us by

    As another World Book Day passes us by it’s been great to see so many children, parents, and schools embracing the world of books. I would like to give a huge thank you to the parents who contacted me through my website and social media pages with pictures and stories of their children dressing up…

  • Announcing The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical

    Announcing The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical

    Cover reveal coming soon! Watch this space – Things are about to get magical!

  • Waterstones – Aberdeen & Latest News

    Waterstones – Aberdeen & Latest News

    Waterstones Aberdeen – 9th February 2019 Pictures can’t do this event justice! We had a great time on Saturday as Waterstones in Aberdeen celebrated mid-term with a Creatures of the Forest Party. I was invited along to read my book, The Fairy in the Kettle, and join in the crafty fun.  We made our own…

  • Happy New Year

    Happy New Year

    Happy New Year and welcome to my first blog post of 2019.   It was a busy end to 2018 with book shop events, festivals, and school visits promoting my latest picture book, The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish.  As always it is great to be able to go into schools to read to and…

  • World Of Work Week at Pitlochry Primary School

    World Of Work Week at Pitlochry Primary School

    The Perthshire Advertiser has a lovely article today about my visit to Pitlochry Primary School as part of their World of Work Week. Thank you so much for inviting me along, it’s always inspiring to meet such enthusiastic children.  

  • When a book comes to life!

    When a book comes to life!

    I love this stage! Debbie Bellaby has completed the internal illustrations for my next book and is just about to add the colour! She has, yet again, managed to bring my story to life just as I had imagined during the writing process. After I signed off on her rough illustrations, she set to work…

  • Stanley Primary School

    Stanley Primary School

    5th December 2018. It was a pleasure to return to Stanley Primary School, this time to read The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish. After reading to nursery and lower primary pupils and chatting with them about writing and the characters in my stories, I read to pupils from the upper primary classes and answered…

  • Blair Atholl Primary School

    Blair Atholl Primary School

    3rd December 2018. I was thrilled to return to Blair Atholl Primary School to read my latest picture book to Nursery & P1-3 pupils before chatting and answering questions from P4-7 pupils about being an author.  The pupils were given 30 seconds to discuss with a shoulder partner what questions they would like to ask.…

  • Waterstones – Princes Street, Edinburgh

    Waterstones – Princes Street, Edinburgh

    1st December 2018 – I was delighted to return to Waterstones in Princes Street to read my latest picture book.  Events here are always fun and it was lovely to read my Christmas story in front of the Christmas tree. Very festive for the fairy fans who came along to enjoy the story. We managed…

  • Edinburgh Central Library

    Edinburgh Central Library

    1st December 2018. It was lovely to return to the Central Library to read my latest book, The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish.  The children’s section of the library is brilliant for these events and the children enjoyed decorating their own sets of wings. I especially enjoyed returning to the reading room, where the…

  • Book News!

    Book News!

    27th November 2018. The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical The front and rear covers have now been completed and are with the publishers.  Next steps, front cover font, and rear cover blurb.  Once again Debbie Bellaby’s illustrations are amazing and are bringing the next installment of Leona’s adventures to life. I can’t wait to…

  • WalkIn’ Cafe, Spittalfield

    WalkIn’ Cafe, Spittalfield

    25th November – A perfect end to Book Week Scotland!  I read my latest book, The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish, to the delicious smells of home baking and freshly brewed coffee. There were the usual fairy crafts afterwards and Karen, the owner of this lovely cafe, had fairy cakes and juice for every…

  • Children’s Christmas Bonanza at Waterstones – Dunfermline

    Children’s Christmas Bonanza at Waterstones – Dunfermline

    24th November 2018. I was delighted to return again this year for the Children’s Christmas Bonanza.  I read The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish which was, as always, followed by fairy colouring and crafts. I loved their Christmas display too…can you spot my two little fairies?

  • Birnam Book Festival

    Birnam Book Festival

    24th November 2018 – I was delighted to be part of the brand new Birnam Book Festival! In Potter’s Junction at Birnam Arts. I read The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish to little fairy fans who also enjoyed fairy colouring and crafts afterwards.  A great event in lovely surroundings.    

  • Pitlochry Primary School

    Pitlochry Primary School

    13th November 2018 – I was asked along to Pitlochry Primary school to speak to primaries 5 – 7 about their World of Work Week.  It was a pleasure to answer their many fabulous questions on writing/structuring a story, finding a publisher/illustrator, and life as an author. There were definitely some budding authors and illustrators…

  • Read-a-Licious Book Festival

    Read-a-Licious Book Festival

    21st November 2018 – I was at The Eastgate Theatre in Peebles for the Read-A-Licious Festival which ran in conjunction with Book Week Scotland. This was a really lovely event held in their theatre. Primary 2-4 pupils from surrounding schools came along to hear The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish and ask lots of…

  • Waterstones – Stirling & Waterstones – Braehead

    Waterstones – Stirling & Waterstones – Braehead

    17th November 2018 – It was an early start to Book Week Scotland, with an event in Waterstones Stirling in the morning and another event in Waterstones Braehead in the afternoon. It was great to return to both stores and see so many old and new fairy fans, who had come along to hear The…

  • Royal School of Dunkeld

    Royal School of Dunkeld

    14th November 2018 – It was lovely to be back amongst old friends at RSD, and reading my latest picture book to Nursery and Primary 1 was a pleasure.  This was a school visit with a difference, as I also officially opened their new Early Years Library! It was great to see such young children…

  • A strange couple of weeks

    A strange couple of weeks

    It’s been a strange couple of weeks, to say the least, with not much writing done.  I have, however, been busy with other fun book stuff. Debbie sent through her latest sketches for The Fairy in The Kettle Gets Magical (out 2019) and it has been great revisiting the manuscript.  I loved writing this book…

  • Waterstones – Perth

    Waterstones – Perth

    Thank you to everyone who came along to make this a brilliant event.  A little early for Christmas but, The Fairy in the Kettle’s Christmas Wish was also available today and I am delighted that it is a new read for so many fairy fans. Thank you for having me, it was great to return…

  • Waterstones – Braehead, Glasgow

    Waterstones – Braehead, Glasgow

    It was lovely to be back in Waterstones, Braehead reading The Fairy in the Kettle. Thank you to everyone who came along to join in the fun and to Jasmine, who kindly gave me her beautifully decorated wings to look after.

  • Waterstones – Stirling

    Waterstones – Stirling

    Thank you so much to Waterstones, Stirling for having me back to read The Fairy in The Kettle. We had great fun with fairy colouring and wing decorating after the reading.  It was lovely to see so many fairy fans, thank you to all who came along to join in the fun.    

  • Waterstones – Oban

    Waterstones – Oban

    I was delighted to return to Waterstones, Oban as part of their Fairies and Unicorns Day. How gorgeous are these fairy wings, designed by one of the little fairy fans who came along. Also a huge happy 5th birthday to Charlotte who came to spend the morning of her birthday with us.

  • Waterstones – Princes Street, Edinburgh

    Waterstones – Princes Street, Edinburgh

    I was delighted to return to Waterstones, Princes Street in Edinburgh to read The Fairy in the Kettle. And it was great to see familiar faces among the fairy fans who came along to hear my story…and, of course, enjoy the fairy colouring and wing decorating.  Thank you so much for having me back!   

  • Braehead Shopping Centre – Glasgow

    Braehead Shopping Centre – Glasgow

    It can’t get any more magical than reading The Fairy in the Kettle in a Magical Forest, and that’s exactly what we did in Braehead! Lots of fairy fans came to enjoy the reading, fairy colouring, and wing decorating.  

  • The Fairy In The Kettle’s Christmas Wish – COVER REVEAL!

    The Fairy In The Kettle’s Christmas Wish – COVER REVEAL!

    I’m thrilled to reveal the cover for the latest picture book in The Fairy in the Kettle series.  Lots of events coming up, so keep an eye on here and my social media pages. Available WORLDWIDE to pre-order from Waterstones, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and all good bookshops.  Publication date August 24th, 2018. Click here…

  • Cover Reveal

    Cover Reveal

    COVER REVEAL!!! The Fairy In The Kettle’s Christmas Wish – coming July 1st, 2018. Publication date August 24th, 2018.

  • Exciting News!

    Exciting News!

    I am absolutely delighted to have signed the paperwork for the third book in The Fairy In The Kettle series today! Out in 2019…  

  • Waterstones – Braehead

    Waterstones – Braehead

    I was asked to speak to a local Brownie group as part of their “Oh no, Brown Owl is Four-0” badge today. The brownies had to speak to an author and ask questions as part of their badge, and they did so brilliantly, asking me a variety of questions on writing, finding an illustrator, and…

  • Open Day – Benmore Botanical Garden

    Open Day – Benmore Botanical Garden

    Once again, this was a great event in stunning surroundings. And reading The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical in Puck’s Hut only added to the atmosphere. It was great to see familiar faces from last year and meet new Leona fans who were delighted to get stuck into the arts and crafts after the…

  • Juniper Green Primary School

    Juniper Green Primary School

    I spent today with the Primary 1, 2 and 3 pupils of Juniper Green Primary School. It was inspiring to hear the pupils talk so enthusiastically about their writing and answer their many amazing questions. They told me about their stories, and their strategies for writing and I’m sure I met future authors. Thank you…

  • Edinburgh Central Library

    Edinburgh Central Library

    There was such a great turnout for the event at Edinburgh Central Library!  After reading The Fairy In The Kettle, there were plenty of arts and crafts to choose from and children enjoyed making and naming their own fairies. There was of course the usual fairy colouring and a pair of wings to take away…

  • St Leonard’s Primary School, Dunfermline

    St Leonard’s Primary School, Dunfermline

    It was a pleasure to visit P1 pupils at St Leonard’s Primary school in Dunfermline and to meet children who are so enthusiastic about their reading and writing.  Thank you so much for asking me along.

  • A Little Update

    A Little Update

    Just to let you know we are working away in the background and I will be able to share news on the publication of the second book in The Fairy In The Kettle series in the coming weeks.  I am also working on something quite different, early stages at the moment, but as always I…

  • Waterstones – Braehead, Glasgow

    Waterstones – Braehead, Glasgow

    I was thrilled to be invited back as part of Book Week Scotland. It was lovely to see everyone again and read my story to new fairy fans. Being the start of the December the store was far too busy for pictures…but great fun!  

  • RDM Primary School, Scone

    RDM Primary School, Scone

    The topic this term for the P3 pupils of RDM in Scone was Enterprise. As it coincided with Book Week Scotland, I was invited to talk about life as an author and the business side of writing. A great session finished off with brilliant questions and great ideas from the pupils.

  • Royal School of Dunkeld

    Royal School of Dunkeld

    As part of Book Week Scotland, I spent the day with the pupils from the Royal School of Dunkeld. Great fun reading my story and chatting to pupils from nursery up to P2 before moving on to discuss writing structure, working with illustrators and publishers, and the process of getting the book onto shelves with…

  • Walkin’ Cafe, Spittalfield

    Walkin’ Cafe, Spittalfield

    We had a lovely warm welcome today with lots of home baking and a log burner to keep us warm.  After reading my book, there was the ever-popular fairy colouring and wing decorating, followed by juice and fairy cakes provided by Karen, the owner of the cafe. Thank you, Karen, for the welcome, the fairy…

  • Christmas Children’s Book Festival, Waterstones – Dunfermline

    Christmas Children’s Book Festival, Waterstones – Dunfermline

    18th Nov 2017 – Great fun was had by all today as we took part in the Children’s Book Festival. After reading my book we enjoyed fairy colouring, fairy wing decorating and writing letters to Santa. We even had salt dough Christmas decorations, made by the Waterstones staff themselves, to decorate. Lots of glittery fun!

  • Tollcross Primary School, Edinburgh

    Tollcross Primary School, Edinburgh

    4th Oct 2017 – This morning’s visit took me to Tollcross Primary School where I read The Fairy In The Kettle to the P1, P1/2, and P2 classes.Thank you all for such a warm welcome and for asking so many of your brilliant questions. After I left, the pupils of P1 set to work making…

  • Update

    Update

    25th Sep 2017 – I have penciled in some quiet time over the next few months to work on the production of the second book and finish writing the third in The Fairy In The Kettle series. I have a few school visits planned over the next few weeks and am very much looking forward…

  • Comrie Fortnight Festival

    Comrie Fortnight Festival

    1st Aug 2017 – We took over Comrie Library this morning and enjoyed Fairy colouring and wing decorating after reading The Fairy In The Kettle. Thank you to everyone who came to join in the fun and to Comrie Library for asking me to be part of the festival.  

  • Waterstones – Stirling

    Waterstones – Stirling

    25th July 2017 – Great fun at Waterstones, Stirling today reading my book to lots of Fairy fans. The fairy colouring and tiara making that followed went down a treat! As always, thank you so much to everyone who came along.  

  • Waterstones – Braehead, Glasgow

    Waterstones – Braehead, Glasgow

    22nd July 2017 – Another great event at Waterstones, Braehead today. Thank you to all the Fairy fans who came along to hear my story and join in the colouring fun. It was lovely to hear some of your fairy stories too!  

  • Waterstones – Inverness

    Waterstones – Inverness

    5th July 2017 – An absolutely fantastic event in Inverness today! An amazing turnout and I can’t thank the staff enough for all their on-the-spot organising after we ran out of colouring sheets! Many thanks to all those who came along to join in the fun!  

  • Waterstones – Oban

    Waterstones – Oban

    1st July 2017 – There was a brilliant turnout in Oban for the reading of The Fairy in the Kettle. Thank you to everyone who came along and to the Waterstones staff for their warm welcome and enthusiasm. Loved your Fairy village!    

  • Aviemore Primary School

    Aviemore Primary School

    30th May 2017 – I was delighted to spend the morning with P1 to P3 pupils and staff of Aviemore Primary School. After reading The Fairy in the Kettle, it was a pleasure to answer the many varied and brilliant questions. Thank you all for such a warm welcome and a big thank you too…

  • Open Day – Benmore Botanic Garden

    Open Day – Benmore Botanic Garden

    28th May 2017 – I read my book throughout the afternoon in the enchanting Puck’s Hut at Benmore Botanical Garden.  After hearing my story the children had great fun fairy colouring and making their very own set of fairy wings. An absolutely brilliant afternoon in stunning surroundings, thank you for inviting me to be part…

  • Waterstones – Aberdeen

    Waterstones – Aberdeen

    20th May 2017 – A huge thank you to the staff in Waterstones, Aberdeen for a brilliant event and to everyone who came along. We had great fun with the activities including the very popular fairy wings which could be seen fluttering around the store!

  • Waterstones – Dunfermline

    Waterstones – Dunfermline

    6th May 2017 – There was a sprinkling of fairy dust in Waterstones, Dunfermline on Saturday! Storytime was followed by fairy colouring, fairy decorating, and a fairy Treasure Hunt. We even had fairy cakes! It was lovely to see so many fairy dresses too!  

  • Wigtown Spring Book Festival

    Wigtown Spring Book Festival

    29th Apr 2017 – Wigtown Spring Book Festival! I had a great time in Curly Tale Books during the Wigtown Spring Book Weekend! Fairy craft followed readings of The Fairy in the Kettle and there was a sneak peek at some of the early illustrations from book two!              …

  • Errol Primary School

    Errol Primary School

    26th Apr 2017 – Massive thank you to the staff and pupils of Errol Primary School. It was great to visit the Nursery, P1, P2, and P3 classes, who were using their lovely new library space for the first time! Lots of brilliant questions asked and definitely some aspiring young writers in the audience.

  • Easter Library Visits

    Easter Library Visits

    4th to 8th April – Easter Library Visits I’ve had a very busy week visiting Strathearn Library in Crieff, Scone Library, Loch Leven & Kinross Library, and AK Bell Library in Perth. There were some lovely Fairy costumes on show and after reading The Fairy in the Kettle, the children enjoyed fairy hunts, fairy colouring,…

  • Oxgangs Library, Edinburgh

    Oxgangs Library, Edinburgh

    21st Mar 2017 – Oxgangs Library, Edinburgh   Oxgangs Library and the P2 pupils, who braved the cold wind and snow, from Oxgangs Primary School were great hosts today. It is amazing how children as young as P2 can ask you such brilliant questions about writing a book and how that book appears in the…

  • Waterstones – Princes St Edinburgh

    Waterstones – Princes St Edinburgh

    18th Mar 2017 – Waterstones West End, Princes St, Edinburgh Our Fairy Activity day was extremely busy and a great success with book readings, wand making, and fairy bingo. Fairy colouring was enjoyed by some of the adults just as much as the children! Many thanks to the brilliant staff who went all out for…

  • Moredun Library, Edinburgh

    Moredun Library, Edinburgh

    14th Mar 2017 – Moredun Library Thank you to the staff of Moredun Library, and pupils from Craigour Primary School in Edinburgh today for making this such an enjoyable visit. Great to see such enthusiastic little readers.  

  • Glenearn Community Campus Visit (Inch View Primary)

    Glenearn Community Campus Visit (Inch View Primary)

    10th Mar 2017 – I had a lovely morning with the P1 pupils at Glenearn Community Campus in Perth today who asked me lots of brilliant questions about being an author. They even had a lovely spot all set up in the library for me with a gorgeous fairy display with their own fairy in…

  • Glendelvine Primary Visit

    Glendelvine Primary Visit

    8th Mar 2017 – Glendelvine Primary School It has been a long time since I was last in Glendelvine Primary School but it was lovely to return today to read The Fairy in the Kettle. We had two great sessions, P1-3 asked all about writing a book and finding an illustrator.  While P4-7 asked all…

  • Fairview School Visit

    Fairview School Visit

    6th Mar 2017 – I was really lucky and had the chance to read my book to some of the pupils at Fairview School in Perth today.  It was lovely to see you all and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. I even got to bring a wee memento home!

  • Waterstones – Perth

    Waterstones – Perth

    4th Mar 2017 – Waterstone’s Perth event.  I had a great morning reading The Fairy in the Kettle in Waterstones, Perth today followed by some fairy colouring.  Thank you so much to the staff for being so welcoming and enthusiastic and to everyone for braving our typical Scottish weather this morning!  

  • World Book Day!

    World Book Day!

    2nd Mar 2017 –  WORLD BOOK DAY. I was lucky enough to spend today with the pupils of Burrelton Primary School in the morning and Craigie Primary School in Perth, in the afternoon.  It was great to see so many pupils and staff dressed up as their favourite characters from their favourite books.  Thank you…

  • Auchtergaven Primary School – Visit 2

    Auchtergaven Primary School – Visit 2

    1st Mar 2017 – I was invited back to Auchtergaven Primary School in Bankfoot by their P6/7 pupils, as part of their WORLD BOOK WEEK activities. Thank you for having me back, it was great to see what you had done since my last visit.

  • Auchtergaven Primary School – Visit 1

    Auchtergaven Primary School – Visit 1

    2nd Feb 2017 – Another great school visit yesterday! This time I was at Auchtergaven Primary School in Bankfoot. Great questions, we covered everything from writing a story to it arriving in a book shop, and life as an author.  Thank you all so much for a lovely morning.

  • Stanley Primary School Visit

    Stanley Primary School Visit

    26th Jan 2017 – I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon at Stanley Primary School. After reading The Fairy in the Kettle, I answered the pupil’s many varied and brilliant questions and we chatted about their writing. Thank you for asking me along. I later received this feedback from the school: “The kids and staff really enjoyed…

  • Highland Perthshire Schools Visits

    Highland Perthshire Schools Visits

    29th Nov 2016 – I spent this morning with some very creative, young aspiring writers.  Blair Atholl Primary School and Logierait Primary School, thank you all very much for making me feel so welcome.  I loved hearing all your story and writing ideas.

  • Book Week Scotland

    Book Week Scotland

    25th Nov 2016 – I have had such a busy Book Week Scotland.  Thank you to the staff and pupils at Pitlochry Primary School, Eastern Primary School in Broughty Ferry, Newhill Primary School in Blairgowrie, and Murthly Primary School. I was made so welcome by you all and a special thank you to all the…

  • Charity Donation

    Charity Donation

    18th Nov 2016 – Many people who have purchased my book, either from me directly or at an event, have told me “just to keep” the 1p change. I have always said that I would donate it to charity at the end of the year. Today I have put all those pennies towards a donation…

  • Royal School of Dunkeld Visit

    Royal School of Dunkeld Visit

    26th Oct 2016 – I had a brilliant day reading my book to both nursery children and pupils at Royal School of Dunkeld.  It was great to see everyone again and answer all of your amazing questions.  Hope to see you all again soon.