another me

This isn't another me. It's still me, the same one, unfortunately, but I had a lovely meeting on Monday, and it looks as if the film of my book, Another Me, is going into production early next year! The film rights have been bought for ages, and up till now everything has been moving slowly but steadily. Now, it seems as if it is really going to take off and I am so excited. I am lucky too that I am kept so much in the loop about what is happening. I think I am going to love what they are planning for the film. I've always loved movies. So, if anyone is reading this, keep your fingers crossed it all works out. I am keeping everything that can be crossed, crossed. For me, I am just going to enjoy the moment.

busy week!

I have had such a wonderful week. Since I was last on here I have been on a panel with Ian Rankin and Don Paterson at the Central Libary in Edinburgh. This was for the Tesco Summer Read. My book, "Grass" was shortlisted, one of very few children's books on the shortlist, along with so many wonderful books for adults. I was so delighted to be asked to share a panel with such eminent writers and I was a bit worried that I might say something daft, no change there, but everyone was so nice and it was a lovely evening, And though I probably did say something daft, no one mentioned it. The next morning I was off to Islay for the Islay Book Festival, visitng schools on the island, and doing creative writing workshops with the pupils.  I didn't come back until Monday, and then on Thursday I was back in Edinburgh for the announcement of the shortlist for the Royal Mail Scottish Book Awards, and Grass has been shortlisted for that too! I have known for weeks, but sworn to secrecy, not easy when you have a big mouth like mine. But now, the secret is out, and just being shortlisted is so fabulous. The other writers and books shortlisted in my category are The Witching Hour by Elizabeth Laird, and Crossing The Line by Gillian Philip.  We'll have to wait until next February to find out who the winner is. So for now, I am just going to enjoy being on the shortlist.  Yesterday I was at Forfar and Kirriemuir libraries and for the first time was able to tell pupils about the Award shortlist.  I am writng this in my son's house in Perthshire. That's where I stayed last night and my son and daughter in law took me out for a lovely celebration meal. Not a bad week, eh? And on Monday, I have another important meeting , but more about that next time....