Olivia Wakeford
Olivia Wakefordwrites a lot about grief, which really means she writes about love. And dogs: she believes every story should have a dog in it! Olivia has worked in film and television, been a scriptwriter, dog-walker, PA and more, but her favourite job is writing novels for children. Olivia graduated with distinction from the MA in Writing for Children at Bath Spa University, she can ride a unicycle (badly) and is addicted to salt and vinegar crisps. She was born in Wales and now lives in London with her husband and their socially awkward Labrador, Obi. My Dog is her debut novel.
Fidan Meikle
Fidan Meikle is an Azerbaijani-British writer, linguist and translator. She writes poetry and prose for children and adults. When she isn’t writing, Fidan can be found teaching languages, indulging her love of Azerbaijani cuisine, or exploring the Scottish Highlands with her husband and children. Her debut middle-grade novel, My Name is Samim, is inspired by the true stories of young refugees who undertake courageous journeys in the hope of finding a safe home. She lives in West Lothian, Scotland.
Peter Burns
Peter Burns is the author of ten critically acclaimed non-fiction sports books and has been nominated for numerous awards, including twice for the prestigious William Hill Sports Book of the Year.
The truth, however, is that he’s always wanted to write children’s books, so Shadow Thieves is a dream come true.
Peter studied English at the University of St Andrews before gaining a Masters in publishing at Napier University. He lives in Edinburgh with his wife, four kids and a slightly nervous cocker spaniel.
He isn’t a Thief, a Spy, an Assassin or a Politico.
Or is he?
Mark Forsyth
Mark Forsyth was given a copy of the Oxford English Dictionary as a christening present, and has never looked back. He is the author of several books on language, including The Illustrated Etymologicon, which was a Sunday Times number-one bestseller. Mark has also written about Christmas traditions and bookshops, and his TED Talk on language and politics ('What's a snollygoster?') has had over half a million views.
He studied English at Oxford University, and lives in London.
Alexander Armstrong
Growing up in the North-East of England and now himself the father of four boys, Alexander Armstrong knows all about the power and the joy of sharing stories. His debut novel for children, Evenfall: The Golden Linnet, is inspired by his childhood and the mystical history of the ancient North. It's a story that has lived in his head for many years and he is delighted finally to share it with you. And to get the space back.