author visits – Marie Basting – Children's Author, Manchester

BBC 500 Words Story Commission Inspires New School and Festival Event

I recently had the pleasure of working with the BBC on the Northwest launch of their 500 Words Story competition at Blackley Academy in Greater Manchester. The BBC Team wanted an event that would fire imaginations and encourage even the most reluctant writers to enter the biggest story competition in the UK. And it wasContinue reading “BBC 500 Words Story Commission Inspires New School and Festival Event”

I’m at WOWFEST – Sunday 4th May 2025

I’m super excited to be part of this fantastic day of celebrations at Sefton Park in Liverpool. I’ll be on stage at 1.35pm if you fancy coming along to say hello. And be sure not to miss Children’s Laureate Frank Cotrell-Boyce at 3pm. Writing on the Wall’s 25th Birthday Party with special guest and Children’sContinue reading “I’m at WOWFEST – Sunday 4th May 2025”

Reasons to Read More This World Book Day

Personalised Letters for Schools and Libraries It’s that time of year again when authors and schools are gearing up for World Book Day. So I’ve put together an extremely serious letter for schools encouraging reading for pleasure. I repeat – this is an extremely serious letter. So if you’re not interested in amazing facts suchContinue reading “Reasons to Read More This World Book Day”

Auntie Medusa Inspires Educational Museum Trails

What an honour to see my reimagining of Medusa brought to life by the talented artist Peter from Sand In Your Eye. The pumpkin carving was part of the promotion for the Auntie Medusa and Me inspired museum trial at the Roman Baths in Bath. Peter used Flavia Sorrentino’s brilliant illustrations to guide him andContinue reading “Auntie Medusa Inspires Educational Museum Trails”

Free Festive Virtual Author Visits for Schools

Click here for details of my discounted in-person Saturnalia events or general author events. In the run-up to the holiday season, I’m offering a limited number of free festive virtual author visits to schools in the UK and Ireland. Exploring the Ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia – the winter celebration that gave us many ofContinue reading “Free Festive Virtual Author Visits for Schools”