Waterstones, West Quay was adorned with magical star themed decorations for the launch of my new children’s book, Secrets of the Snow Globe – Shooting Star. Eager young readers from across Hampshire gathered for the event, keen to say ‘hello’ and buy the latest addition to the Secrets of the Snow Globe series.

Since the launch of my first book, Secrets of the Snow Globe – Vanishing Voices last autumn, I have visited many schools and libraries in Hampshire. It was wonderful to see so many of these children at the launch who were enthusiastic about reading my books!’

As one parent commented, ‘A brilliant evening! Well worth the trip from Andover!’

Travelling a little further than Hampshire to the launch, was my illustrator, Dawn Larder, who journeyed with her twin sister, Sharon Larder, from Spain!

Dawn and I have worked together on two books over 18 months and have communicated via more than 1000 emails but have never met until now! Although we correspond digitally, all of Dawn’s artwork is created using traditional medium.

As a traditional storyteller, we made the perfect match producing books with a classic feel. Having become friends through working together online, it was fantastic to meet her face to face and, at last, to have a conversation! I was thrilled that she could take part in the launch and meet the children who have enjoyed her work.

I was also delighted that my editor, Barbara Large MBE, came to offer her support. Barbara is passionate about helping new writers fulfil their writing dreams. She has worked so hard with me on this book. It was a joy to celebrate with her!

After being treated to star themed cakes and party food, the children had the opportunity to show their own creative flair producing husky dog faces and shooting star bookmarks and husky dog masks. Good job everyone!

‘The craft table was packed all evening with children making bookmarks and masks. I was amazed at how they added their own twists to the designs!’ Joan Bates

To sum it up in Dawn’s words, ‘It was a fabulous evening!!!!!!’

Now, I just have to write book three! I better start scribbling!

Thank you to everyone who came and made the event special!

I had a wonderful morning a few weeks ago at Eastleigh Library, chatting to parents and children about my book, answering questions and giving readings.

It was fantastic to meet so many enthusiastic young readers. Well done to all of you who took part in the craft activities! Take a look at their fab pictures!

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Sara, aged 6

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Bertie, aged 7

Phoenix, aged 9

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Mia, aged 6

A huge thank you to everyone who came along to Quob Stables, and made Daisy's Day a special event! Lots of fun was had in the pony arena as riders, large and small, learnt new skills. Hands up if you managed to touch your pony's ears?

Zoe, from Moxies Magical Faces, impressed everyone with her fantastic face painting. Very realistic!

Daisy stood patiently as the children learnt about why I chose to include her a key character in the book. She behaved impeccably as she was patted and fussed by many little hands. It's a hard life!

Congratulations, Yasmine Taylor, winner of the drawing competition to draw a magical or mythical horse! We love your magical land and horse!

A special thank you to the staff at Quob Stables who made today possible.

Finally, thank you to everyone who bought a book today. I hope you enjoy reading about Daisy!

If you couldn't attend and would like to purchase the book, please visit my online store.

Over 130 friends, family and special guests joined me on the 1st of October to celebrate the launch Secrets of the Snow Globe – Vanishing Voices. I was particularly honoured to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress of Eastleigh. It was lovely to meet them and a joy to share this special event together.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Eastleigh joined me on stage to give a short presentation along with Barbara Large, MBE (my tutor and editor) Daniel (representing Fryern Junior School) Jess Zabaidi, (representing the charity, Smile Support and Care) and John Groves (Elder at Hope Church Winchester). After a warm introduction from John, I spoke about what inspired me to write the book. I also used the opportunity to thank those who had supported me throughout the writing and publishing process.

On World Book Week, 18 months ago, I read an early draft of Secrets of the Snow Globe to the current year 4 children at Fryern Junior School. At the end of my visit to the school, the children had asked, ‘Where can we buy the book?’.  I am sorry it has taken so long! To thank them for allowing me to share the story at this early stage, the Mayor of Eastleigh presented copies of the book to their representative, Daniel.

The launch was a great opportunity to support the local children’s charity, Smile Support and Care. Jess Zabaidi, spoke about the origins of the charity and how they support families with disabled children. I am delighted that we raised £200.00 via book sales on the day for Smile. Thank you to everyone who bought a book! 

Following the presentation, guests enjoyed mingling and reading the display ‘The Story Behind the Story’ or relaxing with coffee and snowflake cupcakes.  With four different cakes to choose from, there was something for everyone, although it is rumoured that some of you managed to sample all four! Well done! 

The afternoon had a magical atmosphere, thanks to my talented friend Louise, who decorated the hall beautifully. The illuminated vases, filled with translucent gel balls, caused peculiar fascination among the children, who couldn’t resist having a feel!  

There was a real buzz of energy as children made their own snowflakes with paper cut outs, lolly sticks, beads and sparkly gems, created castles or designed their own fantasy, snow globe worlds. 

The ‘Castle Corner’ proved to be particularly popular as children played with castle sets or built their own from giant Lego!

Thank you to everyone who came and made it a joyous and memorable occasion!