I love writing and always have. I remember being in the final year of primary school and winning a writing competition for a short story.

My last book, “Does it wet the bed?”, had been in my head for years before I finally began putting it on paper.  For those of you that might not have read it yet, the book tells my story of living with Cerebral Palsy and becoming a disabled mum. Though emotionally difficult at times, as I relived painful events, the book was relatively easy and a joy to write.  Though I wanted to get a message across and raise awareness of Cerebral Palsy, writing my life story was also therapy. It gave me fresh perspective and helped put to bed issues which had played on my mind for years.

My new book is a children’s book which I hope will help to educate kids about disability and encourage them to ask the questions that come to mind.  It’s very different to my first major writing project – a complete shift in mindset is needed. I’m not writing for myself anymore and am constantly trying to think like a child!  From the words I use, to the style and overall message, it all has to appeal to a world that I’m struggling to remember!!  There’s also other issues, such as the illustrations to think about so the process of producing this book is very different to the first. It’s been said that writing is a lonely job and it’s easy, I think, to lose confidence in yourself and your work.  But I’m so passionate about the fact that kids need to understand these issues in order to help shape their future attitudes. That’s what keeps me going when the doubts try to put me off.

However, reading to my little boy Jack, is helping in focusing my mind and generating ideas. Though I’m aiming my book at children slightly older than Jack, his school have kindly agreed to “test drive” the book and provide some valuable feedback.

I’d welcome hearing from other parents and children who would be happy to do the same! Please contact me if you’re willing!