Back at the beach

 

It was lovely being back down at Coney Island yesterday - lovely to see Fionnuala, Mairi, Rhonda and Maddie.

It was good to get stuck into some writing, as well as catching up with everyone over coffee and muffins.

 

 

After writing, we enjoyed taking a break and strolling on the beach. Bring on a summer of writing and beaches!

 

 

 

 

Goodbye Mr Bond

I was so sorry to hear of Michael Bond's death today. I loved reading all the Paddington books as a child. Michael Bond brought Paddington to life - creating a larger than life character. I loved the books so much I actually believed (as a child) that Paddington was real - so much so I hoped I would bump into him at London's Edgware Road market on my first visit to London aged 8.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-36428937

Beachcombing

It was lovely being back down at Coney Island yesterday morning with Maddie, Rhonda, Cathryn and Moira.

After the obligatory muffins and coffee, catching up and chatting, we considered working titles.

Then for further inspiration we strolled on the beach in the sunshine, discovering what the tide had brought in.

The dogs joined in the foraging adventure.

The prize has to go to Moira for finding an old lobster pot, though Coley was determined to take part, finding a few sticks, a Mr Sheen canister and an old golf ball.

There's never a dull moment in Coney :-)

When will you write a proper book?

I had a great day out at 'When are you going to write a proper picture book' in Dun Laoghaire library yesterday. There were a range of great speakers and lots of food for thought.

What comes first - the Words or Pictures? - Sarah Webb in discussion with writers and illustrators, Chris Judge, Michael Emberley and Mary Murphy.

 Is it me you're looking for - Aoife Murray(CBI), Deirdre McDermott (Walker Books), Emma Byrne (O'Brien Press), Tadhg MacDhonnagain (Futa Fata), Mags Suggs (Illustration Ireland).

 

 

Marie Louise Fitzpatrick talking about picture books and 'Owl, Bat, Bat, Owl'

 

Having a break



Writing pals

 

 

Now to get on with it!

The Proof of the Pudding

I've got a short story published on the Scottish Book Trust's website  - 'The Proof of the Pudding'

Think about what you can do...

I had the privilege yesterday of hearing Giles Duley speak about 'The Power of a Story'. He told his own story in a moving, sometimes humourous and inspiring way. It is an amazing journey of how he has overcome horrific injuries sustained when stepping on an IED in Afghanistan and returned to the work he loves - telling the stories of war we need to hear and see through his camera lens.

It was a real inspiration and truly humbling to listen to him. This man is amazing!

"Don't think about what you can't do, think about what you can do"


https://www.ted.com/talks/giles_duley_when_a_reporter_becomes_the_story


http://www.gilesduley.com/

Haggis is back!

I'm delighted to say that this young chap will be back with another adventure very soon.  You will be able to read 'Haggis Gets Stuck in' when it is published in 'The Launchpad'. Keep in touch for further information....