Welcome

I write funny books for children inspired by myth, fairytales and Ancient Rome and offer author visits and creative writing workshops to support the curriculum and boost reading for pleasure.

My books take inspiration from myth, history and fairy tales, turning traditional stories upside-down and giving them a hilarious contemporary twist. They have been critically acclaimed in the national press, won awards for KS2 curriculum support and inspired museum trails at the Roman Baths, Bath and the Corinium Museum. You can find out more about them and order signed and dedicated copies here.

Told by a careers advisor that girls like me don’t become writers, I love encouraging children to defy the limits others put on them through my events and school visits. Schools, festivals and event organisers, you can find details of the fun, inspirational presentations and workshops I offer here.

I feel it is important children from all backgrounds get to experience the many benefits of an author visit, and frequently offer discounts to schools in the Greater Manchester, Halton and Merseyside area. I also offer free virtual visits and a range of resources to support reading for pleasure. I’m always happy to send some encouraging words to your pupils too!

I love hearing from readers, so why not drop me a line via the contact form and do make sure to check out my blog for my latest news.

Here I am at the Medusa trail at the Corinium Museum. Can you spot the gorgon?

My books just wouldn’t be the same without the wonderful illustrations by Flavia Sorrentino, who as well as producing the cover art and chapter headings for the My Family and Other Romans and Auntie Medusa and Me and illustrated my debut novel, the acclaimed Princess BMX. Find out more about Flavia here.

When Marie Basting was fifteen, she was told by a careers advisor that girls like her don’t become writers. For a long time, she believed this. But then something magical happened and Marie finally came to realise that girls like her can do anything they want. Princess BMX is her debut novel.

• Cringey Self-Promo Moment!
  One of the hardest things I have had to overcome as an author is the embarrassment associated with promoting my books. I’m fine chatting on social media, but I’m not somebody who finds it easy to blow their own trumpet. Shouting about your achievements isn’t something working-class girls from the North were brought up toContinue reading “Cringey Self-Promo Moment!”
• Auntie Medusa and Me: Discover Roman Traditions This Christmas with a Free Virtual Visit or Author Letter
  Did you know my book Auntie Medusa and Me is set in the run-up to the Christmas holidays? It also heavily features Saturnalia – the Roman festival that gave us many of our Christmas traditions. I would love to send your KS2 class a seasonal message wishing them happy holidays and telling them all aboutContinue reading “Auntie Medusa and Me: Discover Roman Traditions This Christmas with a Free Virtual Visit or Author Letter”
• Inspiring Young Creatives with My Family and Other Romans
  I recently received a letter from a reader and their tutor containing some amazing fan art and creative writing pieces inspired by my book My Family and Other Romans. It really is the best feeling when you learn how your books have inspired young people to create their own words and images. And that feelingContinue reading “Inspiring Young Creatives with My Family and Other Romans”

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