A BOOKSHOP in Broad Street, Reading, welcomed young readers to meet one of their literary heroes to celebrate a book launch last week.
On Saturday, April 15, author Iszi Lawrence joined avid bookworms at Waterstones to talk about pirates and being an author, as well as sign copies of her books.
It follows the publication of Blackbeard’s Treasure, her latest book which follows the exploits of eleven-year-old Abigail as her home in the Carribean in the 18th century.
Ms Lawrence is also the author of the popular Time Machine Next Door series, and she was joined by Rebecca Bagley, who provides the illustrations for both book series.
Speaking after the event, Ms Lawrence said: “It is always amazing meeting new readers.
“As the Time Machine Next Door is about Time Travel, I had to perform a minor miracle.
“The first kid in line was called Noah, so I revealed to him that the first book, Explorers and Milkshakes had the dedication ‘to Noah’ in print already – his jaw stayed open for some time.”
She explained also how much she enjoys the experience of letting readers put a face to a name: “I think it is great to meet young readers to let them know that authors and illustrators are real people.
“And that being a grown up doesn’t mean you have to grow up – I love showing off, and making noise in a bookshop which is usually very quiet feels very naughty.”
She also said that it was the first time she’d had to opportunity to meet illustrator Rebecca, which she said: “was really special.
“Thank goodness she enjoyed working on the series, particularly Wiki the fact finding Kiwi.
“She drew at the same time as me ranting, and the drawings were really special.”
