Tuesday August 12th 2025

Dear Diary,

Today, I hosted three back-to-back children’s activity sessions at Malvern Library. And I must admit, I was a little worried we’d overcooked the goose, and wouldn’t have enough attendees to fill three separate sessions. But I needn’t have feared, as Caroline, Emma, and the team had really got the word out about my visit, and we had children and parents promptly arriving for story time at the beginning of every single session! How fantastic!!!

The first session was the busiest of them all. I started off by reading a couple of chapters of WARNING: Magic Can Be Dangerous! to a wonderfully receptive audience. Then it was time for the children themselves to get creative. They all got stuck into my colouring, cover design, comic strip, and writing activities. But it wasn’t long before I had a request to read a couple of chapters from my latest book, WARNING: May Contain Dragons. So, I happily obliged.

Throughout the day, I met so many talented artists and writers. Francesca had some great ideas for a story, Izzy came up with the deliciously entertaining title WARNING: My Teacher Has Gone Bananas, and Oliver had a wail of a time writing a story under the title prompt Dragon Farts vs Zombie Farts.

I also got to see many children I’d previously met during recent school visits, including Isaac — who I managed to have a quick chat with about which of my books he liked best, given that he’s read them both. It turns out that WARNING: May Contain Dragons is his favourite. And he especially enjoyed the part where the narrator forgets one of the character’s names and the bit when Hugh ***SPOILER REMOVED***.

I had a super time at Malvern Library, but I wasn’t the only one who spent the whole day there. Oh, no! Inaayah and her sister (whose name sadly escapes me – unless it’s Izzy) came along to the first session… then ended up staying for the duration. So, that was a treat!

And I’ve a note here that says I must remember to mention Duncan. But I can’t for the life of me remember WHAT I’m supposed to mention about Duncan! (Sorry, Duncan!!!) I really could do with a photographer AND a secretary with me when I do these events.

I had such a wonderful time at this library and was even presented with a beautiful plant when I left. But the time flew by, and the day came to an end far too quickly! So, I’m really hoping to return next year once WARNING: Grandma’s Gone Bonkers has been published.