Title 2

I am excited and delighted to say that my second title will be Monica Redlich's Five Farthings which will be published in late 2011.

I also hope to republish her other novel Jam Tomorrow in 2012.

In a very quick edit - thank you for the interest and I'll keep you updated.

Streatfeild online

A very quick post today, just to mention Noel Streatfeild's enduring hold as a writer for children. One blogger is holding a Streatfeild challenge - to read as many of Noel's novels as she can in a year, so good luck. A second newish website on Ballet Shoes has been set up as a support to a US college course in children's literature. It could well be a modern version of the course reader with all the useful quotes and directions for further reading that you used to be given in a paper handout. I hope for the day that one of the many children's literature academics I've emailed does actually do a contrast between The Whicharts which contemporary reviews only recommended for the broad-minded and Ballet Shoes which only goes from strength to strength as far as popular and critical values are concerned.

Possible authors

I seem to have spent more time in the British Library reading rooms than anywhere else lately. The discovery of Paula Harris and Lorna Lewis has been entertaining, but both are more suited for the collector and social history enthusiast. I don't think they have quite the wider appeal needed to shortlist them for future titles. That said, anyone interested in novels about music (just sheer enjoyment of playing - no need for precocious talent) or working in hotels or factories should read both writers.