Hi everyone! It's me again.
I'm too busy. That's why I'm so late doing this blog. Also I need a lot of help to get it up on screen because I'm rubbish and Mo has to help me. I know it's pathetic but I'm just not technical. And he's been busy too so it's hard to pin him down.
Anyway. I'm here now and apologise to all my lovely friends and fans across the universe for failing to keep you up to speed. I'm sure you'll cope.
If anyone's interested, here is what I've been doing since World Book Day, back in March.
I worked really hard and got the first draft of my next novel finished. It's called Crash 'N' Bang and it's set in the world of Witchway Wood, but it doesn't star Pongwiffy or the Goblins. It's about The Witchway Rhythm Boys, who have stepped out from the background to take their place in the limelight instead of just being the backing band. It comes out next year.
I've also been working on another book I'm doing with Korky Paul, who illustrates the wonderful Winnie the Witch books. Our first book together is coming out this Autumn. The title's a secret. I haven't had a good enough idea for the follow up yet.(Suggestions on a postcard.) I'm hoping my brain will start working again after my holiday in two week's time! (We're going to Corfu. Sun, sea and quad bikes. Hooray!)
I've also been to Cheltenham, Tottenham, Portsmouth, Farnham, Oxford and Wales. I met some lovely librarians and teachers and book shop people and hundreds (thousands even?) of fantastic children - you know who you are. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful welcome. I loved meeting you all and really enjoyed my time with you. I really appreciate your letters, kids. Thanks to those of you who bought my books - I hope you enjoy them. If you don't, keep quiet about it and donate them to charity or throw them at a friend.
I really enjoy going to all these places, but the travelling is usually awful. I cart along too many books and always manage to hit the tube at rush hour. And I'm always fed too well and eat too much. I miss the family and cats too. Ah well. Next year I think I'll have to cut down. Mind you, I always say that. It's hard to say no when people are so lovely.
Yesterday, I got back from two terrific days in Wales, which looked at its best in the summer sunshine. I stayed at the most amazing hotel overnight, and then sat on a panel and helped judge the Grand Final of the North East Wales Children's Books Quiz, which is an amazing event. The teams had to read six books and answer questions on them, then present a little dramatic scene which will tempt people to read the book. The acting was incredible. There were balloons and a quizmaster and juice and biscuits and picnics on the lawn and we all had a wonderful day. The children got certificates and prizes (very hard to choose between them) and everyone who entered got to take home my first Pongwiffy book! How good is that?!! Everyone was very patient in the queue - there were a lot to sign. The organisers were wonderful. Thank you Frances and Gareth and the rest of the team. And thanks also to my fellow judges who were much more experienced than me.
I've also been to some summer parties - family, friends and publishing events. Met loads of old friends and made some new ones like Jade, who went to uni with my daughter Ella. Hello, Jade! I keep forgetting to talk to her about you, but I will.
Next week I'm going to Southampton and Norfolk. Will tell you all about it on my next blog - after my holiday.
By the way, Dylan and Michael - the replies to your previous comments are attached to the previous blog. Ooh, it's all so complicated!
Bye bye, everyone - 'til the next time. Have a lovely summer.
lots of love,
Kaye
XXX
