Guest Authors & Illustrators.We are pleased to be working with a number of authors, illustrators and industry experts to delivery Maidenhead's Big Read. Below you will find a full list of these amazing people so you can find out more about them!
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The Right Honorable Theresa May, MP
Theresa has served as Member of Parliament for Maidenhead since 1997 and has held several positions within Parliament and Government since. She was a member of the Shadow Cabinet from 1999 to 2010, and from 2002 to 2003 was the first female Chairman of the Conservative Party. In 2010, she was appointed Home Secretary, a position which she held for 6 years before becoming Prime Minister. She served as Prime Minister for three years, until July 2019.
Theresa had a varied education spanning both the state and private sectors, and both grammar school and comprehensive school. She read Geography at St Hugh’s College, Oxford University. She started her career at the Bank of England and went on to hold posts at the Association for Payment Clearing Services as Head of the European Affairs Unit and Senior Adviser on International Affairs.
Theresa has been involved in politics at all levels for many years, starting out stuffing envelopes at her local Conservative Association before going on to be a councillor in the London Borough of Merton from 1986 to 1994. During that time she was Chairman of Education and subsequently Deputy Group Leader and Housing Spokesman.
Theresa was elected Member of Parliament for Maidenhead in May 1997. She lives in the constituency and is an active local campaigner. Her local activity has included campaigns to improve the local train service, bring a minor injuries unit to St Marks Hospital, and improve Maidenhead town centre.
Theresa was appointed Home Secretary in May 2010 and became the longest-serving Conservative Home Secretary for over a century. During this time, she oversaw reductions in crime, reform of the police, and the introduction of the landmark Modern Slavery Act.
Following her election as Leader of the Conservative Party, Theresa was appointed Prime Minister in July 2016, a position she held until July 2019. As Prime Minister, she oversaw the largest ever cash boost to the NHS and the largest expansion of mental health services in a generation; launched a 25-Year Environment Plan and introduced legislation to end the UK’s contribution to global warming entirely; and established the first ever Race Disparity Audit to shine a light on injustices.
Theresa has served as Member of Parliament for Maidenhead since 1997 and has held several positions within Parliament and Government since. She was a member of the Shadow Cabinet from 1999 to 2010, and from 2002 to 2003 was the first female Chairman of the Conservative Party. In 2010, she was appointed Home Secretary, a position which she held for 6 years before becoming Prime Minister. She served as Prime Minister for three years, until July 2019.
Theresa had a varied education spanning both the state and private sectors, and both grammar school and comprehensive school. She read Geography at St Hugh’s College, Oxford University. She started her career at the Bank of England and went on to hold posts at the Association for Payment Clearing Services as Head of the European Affairs Unit and Senior Adviser on International Affairs.
Theresa has been involved in politics at all levels for many years, starting out stuffing envelopes at her local Conservative Association before going on to be a councillor in the London Borough of Merton from 1986 to 1994. During that time she was Chairman of Education and subsequently Deputy Group Leader and Housing Spokesman.
Theresa was elected Member of Parliament for Maidenhead in May 1997. She lives in the constituency and is an active local campaigner. Her local activity has included campaigns to improve the local train service, bring a minor injuries unit to St Marks Hospital, and improve Maidenhead town centre.
Theresa was appointed Home Secretary in May 2010 and became the longest-serving Conservative Home Secretary for over a century. During this time, she oversaw reductions in crime, reform of the police, and the introduction of the landmark Modern Slavery Act.
Following her election as Leader of the Conservative Party, Theresa was appointed Prime Minister in July 2016, a position she held until July 2019. As Prime Minister, she oversaw the largest ever cash boost to the NHS and the largest expansion of mental health services in a generation; launched a 25-Year Environment Plan and introduced legislation to end the UK’s contribution to global warming entirely; and established the first ever Race Disparity Audit to shine a light on injustices.
Anita Frank: Adult's Fiction Author
Born in Shropshire, Anita studied English and American History at the University of East Anglia, before going on to work in media analysis and communications.
She lives in Berkshire with her husband and three children, and is now a full-time carer for her youngest child who is disabled.
Published Books
Anita's debut historical ghost story THE LOST ONES was published in Oct 2019 and is described by Waterstones as being ‘Thoroughly chilling…an insidiously creepy gothic gem about an old house with plenty of skeletons in its closet.
Brilliantly sustained suspense and an atmosphere of exquisite dread linger over the pages of Anita Frank’s superb debut. In the classic tradition she weaves a spell-binding debut of family tragedy, loss and redemption.’
Synopsis
England, 1917
Reeling from the death of her fiancé, Stella Marcham welcomes the opportunity to stay with her pregnant sister, Madeleine, at her imposing country mansion, Greyswick - but she arrives to discover a house of unease and her sister gripped by fear and suspicion.
Before long, strange incidents begin to trouble Stella - sobbing in the night, little footsteps on the stairs - and as events escalate, she finds herself drawn to the tragic history of the house. Aided by a wounded war veteran, Stella sets about uncovering Greyswick's dark and terrible secrets - secrets the dead whisper from the other side...
Born in Shropshire, Anita studied English and American History at the University of East Anglia, before going on to work in media analysis and communications.
She lives in Berkshire with her husband and three children, and is now a full-time carer for her youngest child who is disabled.
Published Books
Anita's debut historical ghost story THE LOST ONES was published in Oct 2019 and is described by Waterstones as being ‘Thoroughly chilling…an insidiously creepy gothic gem about an old house with plenty of skeletons in its closet.
Brilliantly sustained suspense and an atmosphere of exquisite dread linger over the pages of Anita Frank’s superb debut. In the classic tradition she weaves a spell-binding debut of family tragedy, loss and redemption.’
Synopsis
England, 1917
Reeling from the death of her fiancé, Stella Marcham welcomes the opportunity to stay with her pregnant sister, Madeleine, at her imposing country mansion, Greyswick - but she arrives to discover a house of unease and her sister gripped by fear and suspicion.
Before long, strange incidents begin to trouble Stella - sobbing in the night, little footsteps on the stairs - and as events escalate, she finds herself drawn to the tragic history of the house. Aided by a wounded war veteran, Stella sets about uncovering Greyswick's dark and terrible secrets - secrets the dead whisper from the other side...
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Charles Campion RIBI AoU: Architect & Author
Charles is JTP Partner for collaborative planning processes with communities and stakeholders from all backgrounds and sectors. He leads JTP’s Community Planning team. He has led many stakeholder and community design processes, including Central Winchester Regeneration for Winchester City Council; Graylingwell Park, Chichester for Linden Homes; and Liskeard Cattle Market for Cornwall Council, amongst others. Last year he led the Nicholsons Community Planning Weekend in Maidenhead for Areli and he is now engaged with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead leading the community engagement process to co-create a new Vision & Charter for Maidenhead town centre. |
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Internationally, Charles led a cooperative regional planning Charrette (co-design workshops) in Auroville, India; whole town Charrettes as part of the Scottish Government's Charrette mainstreaming programme in Girvan, Wick and Thurso; several Charrette processes in
Sweden; and an international multi-disciplinary team Charrette processes to plan an ecoresort
in Tanjung Ringitt, Lombok, Indonesia.
Charles is an Academician of the Academy of Urbanism and a Built Environment Expert (BEE) for the Design Council. He has spoken at a range of international conferences and seminars including The American Institute of Architects Conference in Las Vegas 2019, The AoU Quality Life, Beautiful City conference in Hangzhou March 2018, the Remaking Cities Congress in Pittsburgh 2013 and he has contributed to various publications, including drafting ‘Collaborative Planning for All’, published by Civic Voice in 2015. In 2009 he travelled to San Diego to accept the International Association of Public Participation Project of the Year Award 2009 for Scarborough’s Renaissance.
Published Books
Charles has recently written a book entitled '20/20 Visions: Collaborative Planning and Placemaking’, which was a finalist in the Urban Design Group Book of the Year Award 2019.
He shows us how involving communities in placemaking delivers better, transformative designs that gain community support and much better outcomes. From the history of the Charrette to practical examples, this is vital reading for anyone with an interest in how to achieve outstanding placemaking with and through the community.
Sweden; and an international multi-disciplinary team Charrette processes to plan an ecoresort
in Tanjung Ringitt, Lombok, Indonesia.
Charles is an Academician of the Academy of Urbanism and a Built Environment Expert (BEE) for the Design Council. He has spoken at a range of international conferences and seminars including The American Institute of Architects Conference in Las Vegas 2019, The AoU Quality Life, Beautiful City conference in Hangzhou March 2018, the Remaking Cities Congress in Pittsburgh 2013 and he has contributed to various publications, including drafting ‘Collaborative Planning for All’, published by Civic Voice in 2015. In 2009 he travelled to San Diego to accept the International Association of Public Participation Project of the Year Award 2009 for Scarborough’s Renaissance.
Published Books
Charles has recently written a book entitled '20/20 Visions: Collaborative Planning and Placemaking’, which was a finalist in the Urban Design Group Book of the Year Award 2019.
He shows us how involving communities in placemaking delivers better, transformative designs that gain community support and much better outcomes. From the history of the Charrette to practical examples, this is vital reading for anyone with an interest in how to achieve outstanding placemaking with and through the community.
Coral Rumble: Author & Poet
Coral Rumble is a popular, award winning poet; in 2018 she won The Caterpillar Poetry Prize. She has worked as a poet and performer for many years, and now specialises in writing and performing for
children. She was featured in ‘Favourite Poets’ published by Hodder Children’s Books. Michael Rosen has commented, “Rumble has a dash and delight about her work”.
Published Books
Coral Rumble has worked as a poet for many years, and is featured in ‘Favourite Poets’ (Hodder). Coral has worked in numerous schools, with all age groups. She has had three collections published, and has contributed to 150+ anthologies.
Both of Coral's later collections were featured in the ‘Best Books’ supplement of Junior Education Mag, and were selected as choices by The Children’s Poetry Bookshelf. Coral has written many poems for Cbeebies TV and Cbeebies Radio. Her picture book ‘The Adventures of the Owl and the Pussycat’, illustrated by Charlotte Cooke, was long-listed for the ‘Oscars First Book Prize’ award.
Coral won the prestigious Caterpillar Poetry Prize, 2018; her winning poem, ‘Mustafa’s Jumper’, was published as a story in 2019. Her new collection of poems, Riding a Lion, is to be published in the summer of 2020.
Coral Rumble is a popular, award winning poet; in 2018 she won The Caterpillar Poetry Prize. She has worked as a poet and performer for many years, and now specialises in writing and performing for
children. She was featured in ‘Favourite Poets’ published by Hodder Children’s Books. Michael Rosen has commented, “Rumble has a dash and delight about her work”.
Published Books
Coral Rumble has worked as a poet for many years, and is featured in ‘Favourite Poets’ (Hodder). Coral has worked in numerous schools, with all age groups. She has had three collections published, and has contributed to 150+ anthologies.
Both of Coral's later collections were featured in the ‘Best Books’ supplement of Junior Education Mag, and were selected as choices by The Children’s Poetry Bookshelf. Coral has written many poems for Cbeebies TV and Cbeebies Radio. Her picture book ‘The Adventures of the Owl and the Pussycat’, illustrated by Charlotte Cooke, was long-listed for the ‘Oscars First Book Prize’ award.
Coral won the prestigious Caterpillar Poetry Prize, 2018; her winning poem, ‘Mustafa’s Jumper’, was published as a story in 2019. Her new collection of poems, Riding a Lion, is to be published in the summer of 2020.
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Fiona Cradduck: Author, Illustrator & Printmaker
Fiona enjoyed drawing from an early age. After her schooling at Moreton Hall, Shropshire, she went to Canterbury School of Art on a Foundation course which she thoroughly enjoyed. From there she went on to Wimbledon School of Art and became involved with printmaking. Fiona continues to make hand pulled prints. Years later, having married and brought up four children she gained an MA in Printmaking and Illustration from Buckinghamshire and Chilterns University College. Now Fiona teaches part time at Artsmart in Beaconsfield. She continues with the printmaking, drawing, and 3D drawing with wire, writing and Illustrating her own books. |
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Image Credit: Stewart Smith Photography
Julie Cohen - Adult Author
Julie is a bestselling author of many books for adults. Her award-winning novels have sold over a million copies worldwide, and she has twice been selected for the Richard and Judy Book Club in the UK, featuring her book DEAR THING and her bestselling novel TOGETHER which has been translated into eleven languages and optioned for television adaptation.
Julie runs an oversubscribed literary consultancy which has helped many writers go on to be published. Her most recent novel is THE TWO LIVES OF LOUIS & LOUISE, long listed for the Polari Prize.
A tutor of creative writing, Julie previously taught secondary school English for ten years. She grew up in Maine, USA, and studied English at Brown University, Cambridge University and the University of Reading.
Julie is a Vice President of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, founder of the RNA Rainbow Chapter for writers of LGBTQ+ romantic novels, and a Patron of literacy charity ABC To Read. She lives in Berkshire with her family and a terrier of dubious origin, in a house full of books.
She never would have done any of this if she hadn’t first been a reader. To her, reading is magical—it’s the doorway to infinite experience and knowledge, and it’s also good fun. And it’s shaped her entire life.
Julie is a bestselling author of many books for adults. Her award-winning novels have sold over a million copies worldwide, and she has twice been selected for the Richard and Judy Book Club in the UK, featuring her book DEAR THING and her bestselling novel TOGETHER which has been translated into eleven languages and optioned for television adaptation.
Julie runs an oversubscribed literary consultancy which has helped many writers go on to be published. Her most recent novel is THE TWO LIVES OF LOUIS & LOUISE, long listed for the Polari Prize.
A tutor of creative writing, Julie previously taught secondary school English for ten years. She grew up in Maine, USA, and studied English at Brown University, Cambridge University and the University of Reading.
Julie is a Vice President of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, founder of the RNA Rainbow Chapter for writers of LGBTQ+ romantic novels, and a Patron of literacy charity ABC To Read. She lives in Berkshire with her family and a terrier of dubious origin, in a house full of books.
She never would have done any of this if she hadn’t first been a reader. To her, reading is magical—it’s the doorway to infinite experience and knowledge, and it’s also good fun. And it’s shaped her entire life.
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Kate Poels: Children's Author
Kate is a children's writer, vice coordinator of the Children's Book Award, children's book reviewer and creative writing workshopper. She appears on BBC Berkshire regularly as part of the Tuesday afternoon book club with Bill Buckley to recommend books for children. Really she is a big pusher of children's books and getting them into the hands of readers. Having began her adult life training as a nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital and then moving to Reading, she took a teaching degree. She has worked in several primary schools, both mainstream and special needs, and continues to spend lots of time in classrooms and school halls one way or another. |
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Kate has 10 finished manuscripts and a bundle of picture books. She spends a lot of time attending writers' festivals, workshops and book events. She is a member of all sorts of fabulous groups such as the FCBG, Children's Book Circle and SCBWI (all worth googling).
She has two sprouting daughters Lily and Jemima, husband Will and the true head of their family... one utterly bonkers collie cross, Pippi.
She has two sprouting daughters Lily and Jemima, husband Will and the true head of their family... one utterly bonkers collie cross, Pippi.
Leysa Henderson: Children's Author
Leysa is passionate about stories, education and above all the environment. She was a teacher and a Specialist Leader in Primary Literacy as well as a Primary Literacy Consultant for schools in and around London, before changing to write ecoadventure books and deliver assemblies to schools up and down the country. Leysa strongly believes that we need to protect our nature so volunteers for Wild Maidenhead to preserve hedgerows and ponds - highly important habitats. Published Books All Leysa's books offer an opportunity to share and discuss global issues and have already inspired many children to make changes. The purpose of the books is to raise money for animal and wildlife charities and raise awareness to the threat our planet faces through the simple pleasure of stories. She has written four books: two chapter books for ages 8 – 12, George the Fraud and The Dragon and Lost Lives plus two picture books, What a Load of Rubbish and The Day the Turtles Came Home. |
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Lisa Buddin: Children's Author
Lisa Buddin is a qualified science teacher who has spent most of her career in the charity sector, raising awareness of human rights and environmental issues. She tutors trainee foot health care practitioners, and is a Mindfulness for Stress & Mindfulness for Health teacher. Lisa lives in Buckinghamshire, not far from Maidenhead, with her husband and two young children. |
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Published Books
So five there are and five there’ll be... Ten-year-old Jessica discovers that she is next in line to be the ‘Guardian’. Newly awakened to adventure and danger, Jessica must reunite five magical cats, the Gatekeepers of the dark realm. But time is running out. The Shadow Beings are gaining strength every day. Were they to escape from the dark realm, all planets would be plunged into despair as once before…
With the threat of the Shadow Beings so near, it is up to Jessica to face the dark realm and fight back the shadows. Will she find the missing Gatekeepers in time? Or will the Shadow Beings rise again?
So five there are and five there’ll be... Ten-year-old Jessica discovers that she is next in line to be the ‘Guardian’. Newly awakened to adventure and danger, Jessica must reunite five magical cats, the Gatekeepers of the dark realm. But time is running out. The Shadow Beings are gaining strength every day. Were they to escape from the dark realm, all planets would be plunged into despair as once before…
With the threat of the Shadow Beings so near, it is up to Jessica to face the dark realm and fight back the shadows. Will she find the missing Gatekeepers in time? Or will the Shadow Beings rise again?
James Preston: Editor Maidenhead Advertiser
James took over from Martin as editor of the independently-owned Maidenhead Advertiser, Slough Express and Windsor Express. Previously,
over a seven year period, he has held the positions of deputy editor, digital editor, web reporter, senior reporter and edited the Business Monthly supplement.
Graduating from Cardiff University in 2012 with a postgraduate diploma in newspaper journalism, he spent short spells with Media Wales, the New Statesman, BBC South and the Daily Echo to gain work experience in the industry.
James took over from Martin as editor of the independently-owned Maidenhead Advertiser, Slough Express and Windsor Express. Previously,
over a seven year period, he has held the positions of deputy editor, digital editor, web reporter, senior reporter and edited the Business Monthly supplement.
Graduating from Cardiff University in 2012 with a postgraduate diploma in newspaper journalism, he spent short spells with Media Wales, the New Statesman, BBC South and the Daily Echo to gain work experience in the industry.
Martin Trepte: Former Editor of Maidenhead Advertiser
Martin is a Board Member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). Formerly, he was the editorial director of Baylis Media, and worked as a local journalist for almost 30 years. He was awarded a BEM in the Queen's Birthday Honours in June 2019.
Graduating from Polytechnic of Wales in 1987 with a Degree in Mass Communication/Media Studies, he joined the Baylis Media group as a trainee reporter and worked his way through the ranks and becoming editor.
A school governor, and a former Chair of the Maidenhead Festival, Martin oversaw a number of hugely successful charity campaigns and community events.
Martin is a Board Member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). Formerly, he was the editorial director of Baylis Media, and worked as a local journalist for almost 30 years. He was awarded a BEM in the Queen's Birthday Honours in June 2019.
Graduating from Polytechnic of Wales in 1987 with a Degree in Mass Communication/Media Studies, he joined the Baylis Media group as a trainee reporter and worked his way through the ranks and becoming editor.
A school governor, and a former Chair of the Maidenhead Festival, Martin oversaw a number of hugely successful charity campaigns and community events.
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Mary Nondé: Non-Fiction Adult Author & Life Coach
Mary Nondé is an Intuitive Life Coach and author of Awaken Your Intuitive Vision. When her daughter was seven, she returned to University (first time around to study Anthropology) and did an MA in Somatic Arts Psychotherapy. Towards the end of her studies she designed the Intuitive Vision Board process which she still teaches 10 years later and has taken over 1,300 people through it. Four years into teaching, Mary was tested big time when a tornado whipped through her life and flattened the lot. She lost everything of financial consequence almost all at once – her partner, home, belongings, career, her savings, credit, pensions and inheritance. Fortunately it left Mary, her daughter and their dog intact and together they started all over again. |
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It was a devastating moment and broke her heart. But there was a gift in it too. It wasn’t until disaster struck did she realise how intelligent and potent the Intuitive Vision Board was. The Intuitive Vision Board she made three months into the crises proved to be the game-changer and the lifeline she needed to steer her way through the challenges she faced.
If it could rescue her from the depths of despair, no doubt at all it could help others who had reached an impasse discover what they can do next. It’s this wisdom and knowledge she now shares through her book, her talk, and her workshops to provide hope, inspiration and encouragement to people and situations where at first it can appear absent.
If it could rescue her from the depths of despair, no doubt at all it could help others who had reached an impasse discover what they can do next. It’s this wisdom and knowledge she now shares through her book, her talk, and her workshops to provide hope, inspiration and encouragement to people and situations where at first it can appear absent.
Michelle Carvill: Digital Marketer, Consultant, Trainer & Author
Michelle is founder of digital agency, Carvill Creative and a four-times published author on the topic of digital and social media strategy. 'Get Social – Social Media Strategy and Tactics for Leaders', published by Kogan Page May 2018, was the 2019 Finalist in the Business Book Awards. Her fourth book, The Myths of Social Media, is due out in March 2020.
Michelle attained a Masters Degree in Business & Strategic Marketing from Kingston Business School in 1996. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
Michelle also hosts ‘The Connected Leader Podcast’ and has so far produced 20+ podcast interviews with a range of industry 'leaders' who are embracing digital and social technologies to connect and communicate. The podcasts are short, practical and insightful - and importantly, enjoyable. You can find the Podcast on all the usual podcast channels and via the website.
Michelle is founder of digital agency, Carvill Creative and a four-times published author on the topic of digital and social media strategy. 'Get Social – Social Media Strategy and Tactics for Leaders', published by Kogan Page May 2018, was the 2019 Finalist in the Business Book Awards. Her fourth book, The Myths of Social Media, is due out in March 2020.
Michelle attained a Masters Degree in Business & Strategic Marketing from Kingston Business School in 1996. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
Michelle also hosts ‘The Connected Leader Podcast’ and has so far produced 20+ podcast interviews with a range of industry 'leaders' who are embracing digital and social technologies to connect and communicate. The podcasts are short, practical and insightful - and importantly, enjoyable. You can find the Podcast on all the usual podcast channels and via the website.
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Pamela Chen: Culinary Presenter & Cultural Educator
Pamela grew up in a conventional Taiwanese family – eldest of two children to a stonemason father and seamstress mother. After a chance meeting with an Englishman, she moved to rural England, got married and started a family. Having experienced a traditional eastern childhood, life in the west was full of surprises! Having lived two very different lives has given her a unique insight into both eastern and western culture. She always knew she wanted to preserve her Taiwanese heritage in the kitchen, and to inject it with western influences that made it accessible to everyone. She developed her career as a cookery teacher and presenter, cultural educator and public speaker. She loves nothing more than bringing family and friends together with her mouth-watering home cooking and sharing colourful anecdotes and stories that bring her two very different worlds to life. |
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Pamela loves to inspire people to create great-tasting homemade meals that are both quick and affordable to cook. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge, skills and enthusiasm for oriental food and showing people of all ages that it really is one of the simplest and quickest cuisines to pick up… and cook up! Using the enjoyment of food and culture to educate and empower people to improve wellbeing through food, respect and relationships is what really drives her.
The heart of her business is more than changing the way we eat: she wants to change the way we relate to others. Ultimately, Pamela's goal is to direct most of her business profits to support social projects working with underprivileged communities and tackling the issue of reducing food waste and food poverty, and providing training and employment opportunities for homeless people.
The heart of her business is more than changing the way we eat: she wants to change the way we relate to others. Ultimately, Pamela's goal is to direct most of her business profits to support social projects working with underprivileged communities and tackling the issue of reducing food waste and food poverty, and providing training and employment opportunities for homeless people.
Patricia Elliott: Children's & Young Adult Author
Patricia Elliott is an award-winning author who has published nine novels for children and young adults, all with Hodder Children's Books.
They range from mystery stories for middle grade, such as The House of Eyes and The Ship of Spectres, to her last novel for young adults, The Devil in the Corner, which is a Victorian Gothic thriller. At the moment she is writing a spooky contemporary fantasy based on the old legend of the Wild Hunt.
She was born in London and grew up in Europe and the Far East. She has worked in publishing and bookselling, in London and in the United States. She now lives in London with her husband and a yellow Labrador named Feste, after Shakespeare's clown.
Patricia has an MA in Creative Writing, and taught at London's Morley College. She loves talking to children and adults about the thrill and adventure of writing and is looking forward to coming to Maidenhead's Big Read.
Patricia Elliott is an award-winning author who has published nine novels for children and young adults, all with Hodder Children's Books.
They range from mystery stories for middle grade, such as The House of Eyes and The Ship of Spectres, to her last novel for young adults, The Devil in the Corner, which is a Victorian Gothic thriller. At the moment she is writing a spooky contemporary fantasy based on the old legend of the Wild Hunt.
She was born in London and grew up in Europe and the Far East. She has worked in publishing and bookselling, in London and in the United States. She now lives in London with her husband and a yellow Labrador named Feste, after Shakespeare's clown.
Patricia has an MA in Creative Writing, and taught at London's Morley College. She loves talking to children and adults about the thrill and adventure of writing and is looking forward to coming to Maidenhead's Big Read.
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Pauline Harper: Educational Trainer
What do you want people to know about you? I spend a lot of time travelling, running, meeting friends and visiting exhibitions. As a teacher I have always been passionate and committed to improving literacy. I have a diploma in reading and language development and am also trained in evidence based parenting programmes. I supported an English language teaching programme Tanzania for more than 10 years. I am Deputy Chair of Assisting Berkshire Children to Read (ABC to Read). It is a great way of indulging my passion and making a difference for children who might not otherwise have the one to one support that is so beneficial. |
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How and why did you get involved with ABC to read?
I looked on the Volunteer Just Do It website and heard about the work of Children to Read (ABC to Read) in local schools.
Which is your favourite children’s and adult’s book?
My favourite children’s book is ‘Peace at Last’ by Shirley Hughes; my adult choice is more difficult, I will choose ‘To Kill a Mocking Bird’ by Harper Lee.
I looked on the Volunteer Just Do It website and heard about the work of Children to Read (ABC to Read) in local schools.
Which is your favourite children’s and adult’s book?
My favourite children’s book is ‘Peace at Last’ by Shirley Hughes; my adult choice is more difficult, I will choose ‘To Kill a Mocking Bird’ by Harper Lee.
David J Betz: Professor of War in the Modern World
Professor David obtained his BA and MA at Carleton in Canada, and his PhD at Glasgow. He joined the Department of War Studies ay Kings College in 2002.
David's main research explores the impact of information technology on war and warfare. He has written widely on these subjects, particularly on insurgency and counterinsurgency, urban warfare, information warfare, cyberwar, and strategic communications.
Previously, he has advised or worked with the UK MOD and GCHQ on strategic issues, counterinsurgency and stabilisation doctrine, cyberspace and cyber strategy. He was a key adviser of British commanders in Afghanistan, and has lectured extensively in the NATO defence establishment.
Publications :
David has published more than 50 scholarly articles, chapters, monographs, and books in places such as the Journal of Strategic Studies, the Journal of Contemporary Security Studies, Global Crime, and Orbis. In 2012 he published Cyberspace and the State: Towards a Strategy for Cyberpower with the International Institute for Strategic Studies in 2012.
In 2015 his book Carnage and Connectivity: Landmarks in the Decline of Conventional Military Power was published by Oxford University Press. He is currently on sabbatical working on a new book on The Contemporary Resurgence of Fortification Strategies which is to be published by
Polity Press in late 2020.
Professor David obtained his BA and MA at Carleton in Canada, and his PhD at Glasgow. He joined the Department of War Studies ay Kings College in 2002.
David's main research explores the impact of information technology on war and warfare. He has written widely on these subjects, particularly on insurgency and counterinsurgency, urban warfare, information warfare, cyberwar, and strategic communications.
Previously, he has advised or worked with the UK MOD and GCHQ on strategic issues, counterinsurgency and stabilisation doctrine, cyberspace and cyber strategy. He was a key adviser of British commanders in Afghanistan, and has lectured extensively in the NATO defence establishment.
Publications :
David has published more than 50 scholarly articles, chapters, monographs, and books in places such as the Journal of Strategic Studies, the Journal of Contemporary Security Studies, Global Crime, and Orbis. In 2012 he published Cyberspace and the State: Towards a Strategy for Cyberpower with the International Institute for Strategic Studies in 2012.
In 2015 his book Carnage and Connectivity: Landmarks in the Decline of Conventional Military Power was published by Oxford University Press. He is currently on sabbatical working on a new book on The Contemporary Resurgence of Fortification Strategies which is to be published by
Polity Press in late 2020.
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Ric Casale: Entrepreneur and Author
Ric is the co-founder of a company working on new ideas for the internet of things, to make products and places more interactive with people and the environment. Enthusiastic about disruptive innovation for social and environmental good, Ric has also studied renewable energy with the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) and urbanism at the London School of Economics and Politics (LSE). His appreciation of the richness of urban life and its potential is borne from living in cities as diverse and energising as NYC, Budapest and Manila. |
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He was shortlisted last year for the inaugural Indigo Prize for economics, the seed of an idea that grew into his first book titled “Civic Revolution”. The next chapter is “Carbon Copy” – a new civic venture linking climate action by local communities across the U.K. Ric currently lives in Windsor with his wife and two children.
Ruth Humphreys: Story Teller
Ruth Humphreys is a storyteller, writer, presenter and former children's librarian. A former Bookstart presenter running storytimes and rhymetimes in Libraries, she is passionate about the magical power of storytelling, based on a unique blend of books and her own stories, puppets, props and songs.
Ruth has also created her own videos on YouTube, and has attended TV presenting training at Pinewood Studios. With over ten years of telling stories, Ruth regularly performs in schools, nurseries, theatres and at festivals, encouraging people of all ages to reconnect with childlike wonder and magic and the inner kid within us all! Ruth has run storytelling events in schools, libraries, shops and fairs
Ruth Humphreys is a storyteller, writer, presenter and former children's librarian. A former Bookstart presenter running storytimes and rhymetimes in Libraries, she is passionate about the magical power of storytelling, based on a unique blend of books and her own stories, puppets, props and songs.
Ruth has also created her own videos on YouTube, and has attended TV presenting training at Pinewood Studios. With over ten years of telling stories, Ruth regularly performs in schools, nurseries, theatres and at festivals, encouraging people of all ages to reconnect with childlike wonder and magic and the inner kid within us all! Ruth has run storytelling events in schools, libraries, shops and fairs
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Stephanie Jayne: Illustrator, Painter & Children's Author
Stephanie is an illustrator, writer, storyteller and freelance painter, in association with Blue Falcon Publishing. She loves illustrating books for children as well as writing unique and quirky stories of her own. She recently publishing her debut rhyming book ‘Eleanor Hurl the Peculiar Girl’. Drawn towards the magical and the unusual in her work, she is greatly inspired by fairytales, movies and all things spooky! Stephanie studied at Manchester Metropolitan University for a BA in Film and Media. |
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Sue Palmer: Children's Author
Based in South Oxfordshire, Sue has worked with school and preschool charities for a decade, and she now writes full time adventure stories for 7 to 12-year-olds. Sue studied German and International Studies at the University of Warwick, before a career in sales and skills training.
Sue runs KS2 space and creative writing-themed workshops to primary schools, prep schools, libraries, festivals and bookshops, weaving the space research she carried out for her writing into her fictional stories.
Her characters are ordinary children who display extraordinary traits as they look for answers and chase their dreams.
Creating her May's Moon adventures has given Sue a real interest in past, current and future space exploration and she loves meeting astronauts. As part of Sue’s research she was involved with local primary schools in Tim Peake's rocket science project and two European Space Agency initiatives as well as meeting several astronauts!
Published Books
May's Moon, published by John Hunt Publishing, is the first in Sue’s space trilogy for 7-12 year olds. Her second book, May's Moon: Fortis Mission, was published in September 2019.
Sue's May’s Moon Trilogy tells the story of 13 year old Michael May’s dream of becoming the first child astronaut. At it's heart, it's a story about chasing dreams and what happens when those dreams start to become a reality.
Based in South Oxfordshire, Sue has worked with school and preschool charities for a decade, and she now writes full time adventure stories for 7 to 12-year-olds. Sue studied German and International Studies at the University of Warwick, before a career in sales and skills training.
Sue runs KS2 space and creative writing-themed workshops to primary schools, prep schools, libraries, festivals and bookshops, weaving the space research she carried out for her writing into her fictional stories.
Her characters are ordinary children who display extraordinary traits as they look for answers and chase their dreams.
Creating her May's Moon adventures has given Sue a real interest in past, current and future space exploration and she loves meeting astronauts. As part of Sue’s research she was involved with local primary schools in Tim Peake's rocket science project and two European Space Agency initiatives as well as meeting several astronauts!
Published Books
May's Moon, published by John Hunt Publishing, is the first in Sue’s space trilogy for 7-12 year olds. Her second book, May's Moon: Fortis Mission, was published in September 2019.
Sue's May’s Moon Trilogy tells the story of 13 year old Michael May’s dream of becoming the first child astronaut. At it's heart, it's a story about chasing dreams and what happens when those dreams start to become a reality.
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Susanna Beard: Author of Psychological Thrillers
Susanna is fascinated by human relationships. She can be found people-watching wherever she goes, finding material for her writing. Her passions include animals — particularly her dogs — walking in the countryside and tennis, which clears her brain of pretty much everything. Having always loved language and writing, Susanna's career to date both demands and celebrates writing. Writing fiction is forever new and joyful - it's fun, and difficult, and frustrating, and wonderful. It offers a freedom from constraint which is refreshing and full of wonder. As a writer and a reader, Susanna likes dark, contemplative stories with a twist. She is fascinated by the psychology of relationships and the impact of insignificant events on people's lives.... And the unfolding drama.... She aims to keep writing, and never to get old. |
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Published Books
Susanna's debut novel, Dare to Remember, was launched in 2017. "Reeling from a brutal attack that leaves her badly injured and her best friend dead, Lisa Fulbrook flees to the countryside to recuperate. With only vague memories of the event, she isolates herself from her friends and family, content to spend her days wandering the hills with her dog, Riley."
Her second novel, The Truth Waits, was published in paperback and ebook in 2018. It's a psychological thriller, partly set in Lithuania. "Anna has everything worked out – a successful company, all the comforts she needs and no ties. But when she stumbles across the body of a young girl on a deserted beach in Lithuania, everything changes."
Both books are published by Legend Press.
Susanna's debut novel, Dare to Remember, was launched in 2017. "Reeling from a brutal attack that leaves her badly injured and her best friend dead, Lisa Fulbrook flees to the countryside to recuperate. With only vague memories of the event, she isolates herself from her friends and family, content to spend her days wandering the hills with her dog, Riley."
Her second novel, The Truth Waits, was published in paperback and ebook in 2018. It's a psychological thriller, partly set in Lithuania. "Anna has everything worked out – a successful company, all the comforts she needs and no ties. But when she stumbles across the body of a young girl on a deserted beach in Lithuania, everything changes."
Both books are published by Legend Press.
Tim Walker: Adults' & Children's Author
Tim Walker is a multi-genre author based in Berkshire. He has been writing in one form or another since leaving school. His first job was trainee reporter for a local newspaper in Liverpool. Here he learned lithographic printing, layout, news reporting and feature writing, soon progressing to film reviewing and writing a music column. He researched and wrote a series and booklet 'The History of Woolton Hall'.
He has written two books of short stories with settings along the Thames Valley. He is currently writing a children’s book series, The Adventures of Charly Holmes, and a historical fiction series, A light in the Dark Ages.
Tim Walker is a multi-genre author based in Berkshire. He has been writing in one form or another since leaving school. His first job was trainee reporter for a local newspaper in Liverpool. Here he learned lithographic printing, layout, news reporting and feature writing, soon progressing to film reviewing and writing a music column. He researched and wrote a series and booklet 'The History of Woolton Hall'.
He has written two books of short stories with settings along the Thames Valley. He is currently writing a children’s book series, The Adventures of Charly Holmes, and a historical fiction series, A light in the Dark Ages.
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Published Books
Tim self-publishes under his brand, TimWalkerWrites Historical fiction series
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Short Stories
Children's Books
Dystopian Thriller: Devil Gate Dawn (2016) |
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Anthony Perry: Children's Author
Tony grew up in Oklahoma in the United States and now lives in England with his wife and young children. He works as a quality improvement manager in the National Health Service in England and volunteers with hospitals in Pakistan to improve health services. He loves history and enjoys spending time with his family and travelling. He has an undergraduate degree in comparative religion from Dartmouth College, a master's degree in public health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and a master's degree in public policy from Birkbeck College, University of London. Tony's experience of his father’s sudden death and the need to connect with his Chickasaw (Native American) ancestry led to this well-executed and vivid coming of-age story that not only acts as an introduction to Chickasaw heritage and culture, but explores the concepts of grief, revenge, and compassion. |
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Building on his experience with Chula the Fox, Tony is now working on two other projects: An account of a Chickasaw Chief’s visit to England between 1743-1746 and his role in British history, and a picture book with two other Native American aut+hors that tells the American Thanksgiving story from a Native American point of view.
Published Books
Chula the Fox is a middle grade historical novel, steeped in Chickasaw language and culture and set in the early 1700s in the Chickasaw Homeland, near present-day Mississippi. It tells an honest and often frank story about Chickasaw lives and the challenges Tony's Native American ancestors faced during the early eighteenth century. Chula, a Chickasaw boy, is suddenly thrown into the murky and treacherous worlds of warfare and adulthood after a traumatic ambush costs him his father.
Left haunted by a restless spirit, Chula concludes, in line with the customs of his time, that only vengeance will make things right again. With the help of his Uncle Lheotubby, and armed with a brand-new musket, Chula hones his skills to become one of the revered Chickasaw warriors. He vows to join a raid against the enemy, regardless of his youth, to avenge his father and put his spirit at peace. But Chula, his heart full of questions, finds that the greatest war rages within himself. It seems he is foiled at every turn by his nemesis, Nukni, and inwardly he is ambushed by self-doubt.
Is Chula destined for the path of the warrior, or will a different future await him?
Published Books
Chula the Fox is a middle grade historical novel, steeped in Chickasaw language and culture and set in the early 1700s in the Chickasaw Homeland, near present-day Mississippi. It tells an honest and often frank story about Chickasaw lives and the challenges Tony's Native American ancestors faced during the early eighteenth century. Chula, a Chickasaw boy, is suddenly thrown into the murky and treacherous worlds of warfare and adulthood after a traumatic ambush costs him his father.
Left haunted by a restless spirit, Chula concludes, in line with the customs of his time, that only vengeance will make things right again. With the help of his Uncle Lheotubby, and armed with a brand-new musket, Chula hones his skills to become one of the revered Chickasaw warriors. He vows to join a raid against the enemy, regardless of his youth, to avenge his father and put his spirit at peace. But Chula, his heart full of questions, finds that the greatest war rages within himself. It seems he is foiled at every turn by his nemesis, Nukni, and inwardly he is ambushed by self-doubt.
Is Chula destined for the path of the warrior, or will a different future await him?
Wendy Woo: Children's Author
Wendy White is a retired child minder from Maidenhead. She has loved to make up or write stories from a very young age. Growing up with books that rhymed such as A.A Milne’s When We are Six, The Secret Garden, The Five Children And It, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe and numerous others captured Wendy’s inner poet!
Published Books
Wendy has written two books of a series named Rat’s Tales. The first is award winning Rat’s Musical Band and the second is Rat Loses His Voice which was published to coincide with the Maidenhead's Big Read festival in March 2019. She has since developed an award winning emotion resource for Early Years children named "My Mood Stars".
Eight books have now been written by Wendy of a series named "Meet The Mood Stars" to help Children's Emotional Wellbeing. The books are awaiting publication but Wendy hopes to have at least one published that she can read to children at the Maidenhead's Big Read in March 2020.
Wendy White is a retired child minder from Maidenhead. She has loved to make up or write stories from a very young age. Growing up with books that rhymed such as A.A Milne’s When We are Six, The Secret Garden, The Five Children And It, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe and numerous others captured Wendy’s inner poet!
Published Books
Wendy has written two books of a series named Rat’s Tales. The first is award winning Rat’s Musical Band and the second is Rat Loses His Voice which was published to coincide with the Maidenhead's Big Read festival in March 2019. She has since developed an award winning emotion resource for Early Years children named "My Mood Stars".
Eight books have now been written by Wendy of a series named "Meet The Mood Stars" to help Children's Emotional Wellbeing. The books are awaiting publication but Wendy hopes to have at least one published that she can read to children at the Maidenhead's Big Read in March 2020.