If you’ve already read all three of the ones available now, you still have Raven Hearts to look forward to in August! After that…who knows? Keep spreading the word, is all I can say! The more ‘in demand’ I am, the more books there will be.
I am not kidding here but all the kitty Slade books should be turned into a movie it would be so awesome with all the ghost kitty sees especially in Venus rocks when kitty sees the ghost with the under water camera with Ty
Hi Fiona, we had a book fair at my school and I bought two books and one of them was Divine Freaks! I would like to ask you, why do you like writing ghost stories? And what is the most useful advice you have been given and who gave you it? I am going to have a go at writing my own ghost story!
Hi Mia, Great! I hope you enjoy it. As I said to Erin the other day (see below) the Kitty Slade stories are more adventure stories featuring ghosts, than straightforward ghost stories. A classic ghost story generally depends on the reader not knowing whether certain things are caused by ghosts, or who the ghost is. So although there are some really creepy moments in Kitty Slade, it’s quite clear who the ghosts are, and the story is always a mystery/adventure. So perhaps the real question is, why do I love writing mystery/adventure stories? I don’t know, I just do! And I do enjoy making them a bit spooky, too. Good luck with your own ghost story!
Ooh, that’s a tricky one…probably Pablo, from Toonhead. There’s not a lot about that book on here, because unfortunately it’s out of print. Which is a real shame, because in some ways it may be my best book. But there’s a bit of me in Lulu, and Rorie Silk as well. Kitty is less like me, more like my daughter.
Hi Fiona my mum got me Venus Rocks and Fire & Roses Im reading Venus Rocks at the moment and I love How its going, sometimes I be sneeky and read it at night to because its really good and ghostly I love it my mum reads ghost stories too and my mum will proberly be nicking Venus Rocks after Iv finished it and go on to fire & Roses. I would love to get the other books. Thanx for writing them Xxx
Hi Erin, sorry, I forgot to reply! Maybe you’ve finished by now. I don’t know whether you could really categorise the Kitty Slade books as ghost stories – they’re more like adventure stories featuring ghosts! But if your mum dips into them, I hope she enjoys them anyway! Thank you.
This is Jessica and Hannah (the ones that are writing the story,I’m Hannah’s best friend)
We abouslutly love your books! We were just wondering what inspirered you to write about kitty slade?
Thanx love Hannah and Jessica xx
Hi Jessica & Hannah! I hope your writing is coming along nicely. Thank you so much; I’m delighted you enjoy my books! You’ll find the info you’re looking for right here on my site http://www.fionadunbar.com/kitty-slade/.
Happy writing!
Fiona I have read your kitty Slade books and their are amazing i think you are the greatest writer just today i have got Venus rocks how did you come up with the names please tell me thanks love Amelia
Fiona i think your books are amazing, especially the Kitty Slade ones and i would love to be able to write like you. what are the other locations of the books you have planned for the rest of the Kitty Slade books.
Hi Georgina, well Raven Hearts is set in Yorkshire…after that, we’ll have to see. I have lots of ideas and am bursting to write more! Let’s hope books 1-4 sell loads, win awards etc, and then maybe there will be more. I have at least a couple of locations in mind.
I love the Kitty Slade Books and I’m started writing some Ghost Books of my own. But it’s the Ghost who tells the story. Do you think it’s a good idea? Also I need a good name for the ghost. She’s a Medieval Princess so it needs to be pretty. Thanks
Love Abi xx
Fiona Dunbar my one an only idol!I Have read all the kitty slade books cant wait for raven hearts!Without Your Books I Would Never Knew How much i loved writing!i have tried to start a ghost book but it wont be as good as yours please tell me some tips love from Hannah xx
Hi Hannah, it’s great to know I’ve inspired you! Thanks for telling me. Have you checked out the writing tips page I have right here on my website? http://www.fionadunbar.com/writing-tips/ I hope these help, and best of luck with it!
Hi Rosie, there’s a footnote on p38 of Pink Chameleon:’Stands for See Hear Everything Live. It’s a phone, document file, camera, music and video player…a mini computer.’
I wrote that before there were iPhones, but essentially they are whatever version of that we’ll be using in about 10 years’ time. Possibly I don’t remind people what they are in books 2 & 3; if not, apologies for that!
Hello Fiona!
Hayley and I read your Silk Sisters trilogy when we were younger and we were reminiscing about them today. We used to race to finish them before each other!They were fantastic books and we just wanted to say thank you! X
hi fiona,
i’m a huge fan of yours and i love the kitty slade books you write! i’m halfway through fires and roses and i’m a bit of a book worm!!i was just wondering if you’ll be doing any book tours in ireland any time soon??
Hi Grace, I’d love to come to Ireland! But I haven’t been invited yet. If it ever happens, you can be sure I’ll post info about it here. Delighted you’re a Kitty Slade fan – spread the word!
Hi Fiona,
I loved your Silk Sisters books. They were amazing! I’ve just finished reading your first Kitty Slade book Divine Freaks and thought it was great. Can’t wait to start reading the second book Fire and Roses!Do you know how many books you will write in the Kitty Slade series?
Thank you for the great books you have written!
Hi Holly, Thanks, that’s great! I always wonder whether fans of eg Silk Sisters will like Kitty Slade, or vice-versa. Re: Kitty Slade, all I can say for now is that there will be another one out this summer, Raven Hearts. After that…we’ll have to see. If you and all your friends spread the word and make her really famous, then there’ll be no stopping her! I’ve got plenty of ideas.
Sorry Maddison, but unfortunately I get asked this all the time, and I can’t put everyone’s name in! So have had to make it a rule not to do this for anybody. Sorry to disappoint. But if we ever meet, I’ll happily dedicate a copy to you!
Hi, Fiona
I LOVE the sound of your ‘Silk Sisters’ books because I love dystopisn fiction My English teacher cojoled me in to reading ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ when I was 16- which was a while ago- and I’ve never looked back.
It’s not a genre I write myself. I’m much better at realistic fiction. But I always admire people who can do the fantastical stuff and do it well. Go, you!
AND you were one of the 1st people to follow me on Twitter.
Thanksxx
Hi Jade, weirdly I’ve not actually read The Handmaid’s Tale, though I feel almost as if I have because it was talked about so much….have read Oryx & Crake, though. I think that was one book that gave me the courage to write Silk Sisters. I do hope you read the books, and let me know what you think! Personally, I admire people who can write realistic fiction well, and I enjoy reading it. Thanks for your lovely message!
Hi again, Fiona
Quick question: I’m writing a story in which my central character has a ‘thing’ about comics(he reads TONNES of them and draws his own). Unfortunately, although comics are something I’m fascinated by, I’m not very knowledgable about them.
Are there any comics/graphic novels I really need to get my teeth in to or books on the subject you could recommend?
Thanksxx
Jadexx
i live near where dr samual johnson used to live. it was lichfield and i’ve been to his birth house twise. its got the real old dictionary in there. i nearly went to king edwards v1 there but i didn’t want to. everyone at my school now calls it king eddie’s
hi Fiona
I am very passionate about writing, and I really admire your work, I’m always watching people in shops, parks e.c.t for new characters can you give me any advice?
Also are you writing new books any time soon?
Hi Monty, all my best writing advice can be found here: http://www.fionadunbar.com/writing-tips/. Hope that helps! At the moment I am doing the edits on Kitty book four, which is to be called Raven Hearts. You’re going to love it.
I just read and enjoyed your post about John Wilkes at the History Girls blog.
If you haven’t read the highly entertaining account of the meeting between Dr. Samuel Johnson and John Wilkes in Boswell’s Life of Johnson, then I highly recommend it.
“I am now to record a very curious incident in Dr. Johnson’s Life, which fell under my own observation; of which pars magna fui, and which I am persuaded will, with the liberal-minded, be much to his credit.
“My desire of being acquainted with celebrated men of every description, had made me, much about the same time, obtain an introduction to Dr. Samuel Johnson and to John Wilkes, Esq. Two men more different could perhaps not be selected out of all mankind…’
HI Fiona
I simply adore your books!
I’m a big fan of the Lulu baker series, pretty please (with a cherry on top) write another one!!!!
I also love the Kitty Slade books I bought the first one in the airport and I was so absorbed I finished it in an hour!
But I wouldn’t be to keen on having kitty’s ability to see the dead!
Quick Question: What gave you the idea to start writing the Lulu Baker series?
Ah, no plans to write another Lulu Baker book, I’m afraid – though lots of people have asked! If you’ve read to the end of Chocolate Wishes, you’ll know why!
Delighted you like Kitty Slade too! I have plenty of ideas for Kitty stories.
In answer to your question: it really was simply that I hit on the idea of writing about a girl with a magic recipe book. Then everything else – Varaminta, Cassandra, the ingredients, how the book came to her, etc – grew out of that.
Keep reading! You might enjoy the Silk Sisters as well.
hi Fiona~
i love all your books so much! ❤
The silk sisters trilogy has to be my favorite trilogy of all time & when i first read pink chameleon, i literally fell in love with the glamorous Nolita Newbuck,the colorful Arthur Clarkson(human and chameleon❤ ) and the idea of spending a day designing freely in fashion world!
I can’t wait for denim jeans to go out of fashion- and slants to take it’s place as one of the most popular garments in the world!
anyway, I’ve always wanted to ask one of my favorite authors a question that might stand out as a little weird, but i’m just plain curious ^ ^ in the 3rd book, Gula’s sister Lilith could see Rorie’s aura, and i was wondering if you yourself could see aura’s too?
After i read the trilogy for the first time I’ve been determined to learn how, but i cannot quite grasp the hole concept… >.<
keep up the good work!
love Leah x
(p.s- i love the color scheme of your website ^o^)
What a lovely, thoughtful message; thank you so much! You’re right, I was being quite ambitious with Silk Sisters, and it is quite a lot to get your head around – it did my head in a bit when I was writing it, to be honest! If at some point you go back and re-read, it should all come together and make sense to you.
Re: seeing people’s auras: no, that is not a skill I have! But around the time I was embarking on Tiger-Lily Gold I met someone who did, and I thought, ‘I have to write that in, it’s just what’s needed!’ It’s amazing when that happens – serendipity.
Glad you like the website too – and I like your lovely heart-shaped kite!
Sorry Straeten – I didn’t get around to answering right away! Thank you so much – and yes, you did spell it right! I love that you find my writing mesmerising (both -ize and -ise are right) Btw did you know that that word comes from a German doctor called Franz Mesmer? Happy reading.
Fiona! i finished tiger lily gold!!!!!! perfect! but I’m zoo sad its over thanks for being amazing!!! love u (as an author)
thanks and happy new year!
Straeten:)
heyyy fiona i just love your book and wont stop reading them (bye the way my name isnt actually sexi lexi it’s just lexi but thats what my boyfriend calls me)x
love sexi lexi x
aka lexi x
I’m a shocking sight with no makeup first thing in the morning, Aiman! I have a good photographer. And, um, I’m even older than that… But thank you, you’re very sweet.
hi fiona your books are amazing thank you so much for coming to my school ( brentwood ursuline ) on wednesday, it is very much appreciated, thank you xxx
I Love Kitty Slade!! She’s GREAT! You left a comment for me on the “Your Ghost Stories Page” saying: I thought Lola got the idea of Fire and Roses but it wasn’t out yet (Check it out Lola!)
Sure I’ll check it out!!
Also thank you for visiting our school and Signing MY book!! X
Hey Fiona, remember me? I was the first person to comment on ‘Divine Freaks’! I’m really sorry, but remember when you said you would put my name in one of kitty slades books, I was wondering which one it was? I’m really sorry for asking I’m just really excited! I’m gonna buy ‘Fire and Roses’ soon!
Ah, yes…I’d better get on and do that, because I said I would. Unfortunately, since then an awful lot of other people have asked me to do this with their names too, and I can’t possibly do it for everybody! So now I have to make it a rule to say no to such requests. But I promised you that I would, so I will – I don’t know which one, though – sorry.
hey fiona, im planning on dressing up as kitty slade for halloween (i no its a bit random because she not scary but its my faverouite book!) so i was wondering does she wear anything specific? thank you love natalie xx
Hey that’s great, I’m really chuffed! You should send me a picture of yourself as Kitty, and I’ll put it up on the site. Well, you can use the image of her from the front cover as a guide: the stripy socks, the Converse sneakers (or other casual shoes if you don’t have those – but NOT trainers! Kitty wouldn’t wear those) She’s a bit Indie and ever-so-slightly Goth, so colours are like those of the book covers and her hair is messily scraped back. Funky silver-coluored jewellery is quite Kitty, too. She’s very Camden Town, basically – though a 13-year-old, non-scary version of that. Have fun!
hey i wrote on your KITTY SLADE page awell i just wanted to ask what is you fav book you wrote and whats you favrouite book to read. thanks your a great writer fiona love th e books cannt wait till fire and roses come out
love rosie xxxx
Hi Rosie, I don’t have a favourite among the books I’ve written – though at any given time, the one I’m most excited about it the one I’m writing! As for a favourite book by someone else – that changes all the time too. Take a look at ‘my favourite reads’ for some examples! Oh, and by the way, Fire & Roses is ALREADY OUT!
Hi Fiona,
I can’t wait for venus rocks to come out! When Fire and roses came out I couldn’t wait to get to the shops! I first saw those books in an advert in girltalk magazine. so I thought I would try it and I loved it! I have only read the Kitty slade books but I am now starting to read the Silk sisters books. No one in my class have heard of you before but we are doing a talk about our favourite person in English and I’m doing about you and your books so hopefully I will get more people interested!
Hi Emily, well thanks! I’m a bit disappointed that no one else in your class knew of me, but hey, you’re spreading the word, so that’s great! I hope you get a good mark for your report.
Hello Fiona ,
I’m Katy and i’m 11 years old. The silk sisters book is wonderful ! I bet you enjoyed writing them . Please write some more ! They’re amazing !
Hi Katy, and thanks! Have you read all three? I’m sorry, but I’m not planning to write any more Silk Sisters books, because the story really does come to an end with Tiger-Lily Gold. But do try some of my other books!
hello mrs dunbar
i have also put a comment on the lulu baker page but i have just seen that your link to the scrapbook is a picture of abba. i love abba music and i got realy exited when i saw it because normaly, well were i live anyway, abba isnt very popular. do you like abba?
Hello again…btw, please don’t call me Mrs Dunbar! I’m Fiona. I don’t know where you saw a link to Abba the band…are you sure it isn’t the blog page ABBA (An Awfully Big Blog Adventure)? It’s a great blog – but you’ve reminded me, I must update my links page. If you haven’t checked out http://girlsheartbooks.com, go take a look! Re: the Swedish band: not especially my taste, but they certainly did thrash out some big tunes! I enjoyed the stage play of Mamma Mia! but didn’t care for the film.
hi! ive just started fire and roses. i was practicly begging my mum to let me go to the book shop on our shopping trip. im really glad theres still venus rocks to come. im sure ill want to know what happens next! you probably want to hear something new but i cant say anything at ALL youd want to hear. ill tell you when ive come up with something.
Hey Rosie, that’s great! I really hope you enjoy it. It’s fine just to let me know you’re happy that you’ve got the book – I’m happy you have too! Let me know what you think when you’ve finished.
Fiona, I have a book for kids and believe it or not my book’s name is A Kitty named Fiona. I know you make illstrations for kids’ books. I hope in the future I can make a book for grown ups like you. You say in the beggining it not easy for you. Now its different, thank you for giving me courage to keep going.
HI Maria, Well, how about that! You’re right, it is a very tough business to get into, and you have to work at improving all the time. I’m glad to have inspired you; keep at it! As you know, I can’t give individual advice, but do check my ‘Writers’ Tips’ page if you haven’t already, and good luck!
Why you wrote the books in the future? Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm………. Well, you said in your interview that you wanted something with fashion, and then you found about something called Smart Clothing, which I think means clothing like what Rorie and Elsies mother and father invented, but I’m not sure. So then that fabulous idea pops into your head (sometimes the same thing happen to me
Now about the thing with the same thing except a little more exaggerated… The Shel (I’m not so sure anymore because I read the books about 1 or 2 weeks ago). I think you described them and told stuff that really wasn’t that possible. Oh, and the video game where it feels like your really in the world. But, as I said before, I’m not really sure
HI BIGFAN, well, you’ve identified a lot of futuristic things that are in the books, but you started out asking about whether any ‘lesson’ could be learned, and so from that perspective I hope readers come away having thought a bit about consumerism – I talk about that in the interview – and the obsession with celebrity for its own sake that prevails in some parts of the media. That was the point of setting it in the future: to exaggerate these things, so that we can see how ludicrous they are. And there’s a hefty dose of what-if: what if it really were possible to steal someone’s identity?
But above all it’s a rollicking good fantasy and I want people to be gripped and entertained! Thanks for your comments!
I’m not very sure. But I have a theory. Maybe your trying to tell us that if we have sisters, we should stick together, because only then we’ll achieve our goals.
OK, well, that sounds like a good idea to me! But do you have any thoughts about why it’s set in the future? Is there anything about the world described in it that you recognise in our world – only perhaps exaggerated? It’s OK, I’m not testing you! I’m just interested in your thoughts.
Hello, Mrs.Dunbar. I am a very big fan of yours and can not wait to read the rest of your books. I only have a few questions:
What are you trying to tell in this story? Is there a lesson to be learned by us readers?
So far i am the only Danel in the world as far as i know and it woould be highly apriciated if you could use my name in one of your books . (i Know im cheeky right?!)
Furthermore coz im a nose person i would like to know : My surname is Daley which is Irish ; is Dunbar scottish?
What is your fave coluor? ( btw mine is AQUAMARINE )
Finally when you were little what did you want to be when you grew up (is grew a word ???)
I llllllluuuuurrrrrvvvvveeeee your book s ure my role model.
Hi Fiona!
Your books are getting better and better everytime I snuggle down, sip me hot chococlate and pick up one of your books!
I loved the Silk Sister Series! I liked the way you created the characters! All outgoing with mystery! I’m SO going to read Kitty Slade! And clearly…
< you have many other fans who are going to, too!
Keep writing the magic you write!
One of your dedicated readers, Sara x
Can you please visit Lewis Elementry School in Solon in 2011 and if you can’t then in 2012 visit Orchard Middle School also in Solon? My friends either call me Vi (the i makes the I in I’m) or Amika. I was born in China then brought to Japan when I was 4 years old and then came to America when I was 8 years old and I’m nine. I love yuor books.
I am a massive fan of yours! I have read the Silk Sisters series, Kitty Slade and the Lulu Baker books! I just wanted to let you know how inspiring you are and also a huge role model for me and many other girls!
Hi Georgie! Wow, thanks! *blushes* I’d better not do anything daft now that I’m a role model – don’t want to let you down! Ah, it’s OK, I think I’ll cope. It’s particularly lovely to hear from people who love ALL my books – though I’m sure you must like some more than others. So THANK YOU! Hope you enjoy the rest of the Kitty Slade books.
Hi Fiona,
I loved your lulu baker series and Divine Freaks.Fire and roses has sold out in my local bookstore and I am waiting impatiently for it to be delivered i don’t think I can bear it any longer.Your an excellent author, and when I grow up,I want to be just like you!!!
I have a question, why did you call divine freaks by that name?
I can never think of good names for my stories. How did you come up with such a Cool name !!!
from Alannah
Fire & Roses won’t have sold out, because it’s not published yet! It comes out on Sept 1st. I’m delighted you liked the title Divine Freaks! It did take me a while to come up with it. If you’ve read the book, you’ll have some idea why: there’s Mr Divine, of course. And then there’s…the freaks. I’ll leave it at that.
Hi Fiona, remember me? I am from St. Cristopher primary school. I bought the book ‘ Divine Freaks’ and you signed it. you said ” do you believe in ghosts? you know the St. christopher ghost ( it dosn’t exist) i just made that up. I can’t believe i actually met someone famous!! your my no.1 author! Love you!!! from Disha Pala. xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
I’m delighted you chose Blue Gene Baby for your project! How I came up with the idea is really something that’s relevant to the trilogy as a whole, of course (have you read Pink Chameleon, by the way?)
Ages ago I did some drawings for what was to be a graphic novel: a satirical, dystopian vision of the not-too-distant future. That featured monsters and everything…alas, I was too busy writing ‘proper’ novels to create the graphic novel (also, my agent steered me away from that!) But I didn’t want to throw the whole thing out, so I thought of a way to work the idea into a novel. Minimerica stemmed from the idea that there would be a sort of junkyard for used-up celebrities: I really wanted to send up celebrity culture, as the progression is towards more and more disposeablilty. I also hate what it does in particular to women and girls’ sense of their self-worth – the obsession with appearance has got way out of hand, in my opinion.
OK, I could rabbit on and on about this…alongside all of that of course is Rorie’s own journey, and how she feels about the different roles she plays with each of her guises – the Elvis one being the pivotal one here! Basically I went as OTT as I could, and had a ball writing it – Tiger-Lily Gold tips right over into a James Bond-type scenario.
Hey, i am doing a book project at school and have choosen your book silk sisters gene baby.I think this a brillant book but i would like to know how you came up with the idea. Thank you very mugh.
Loveeee Livvie xxxx
Well, you’re not the first to ask for another Silk Sisters book, and I’m sure you won’t be the last! But I really do feel that Tiger-Lily Gold wrapped the whole story up, so at the moment I have no plans to write another one. But have you tried Divine Freaks? If you do and you like it, you’ll have at least another five Kitty Slade books to look forward to!
I’m chuffed that you like my books so much, but I’m sure there must be books by other authors you’d like too! I’d like to make suggestions but don’t know what your interests are…a good librarian or bookseller can certainly help, though! Good luck
hi fiona my names elsie when i first read the fiona dunba series i could not put it down like everybody else i dont have to ask you to put my name in it because it already is ( lol ) pretty pretty please could u write 1 more silk story it has put me off reading coz i usaually only read your books i will pay u 1000000000 pounds just kidding lolololo
PS Taylor, re: putting your name into one of my books: I’ve made a note of it, but I can’t promise anything – sorry! I run the risk of having too many people ask this, and if that happens I won’t be able to oblige every time!
Oops, had already answered Emily…onto Taylor. Ah yes, I remember your ‘annoying’ sister! Ah but she meant well I hope you’ve taken a look at my Writing Tips page. There’s nothing in there about how to get published, because I think at this point you just need to concentrate on the writing itself: have fun with it, make it as good as you can, read a lot.
But if you’re asking about how I got published: step one was asking the advice of writer friends; step two, buying the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook: step three, finding myself an agent.
Hollie: with Kitty Slade, I found coming up with the name quite easy: it pretty much did pop into my head. Lulu Baker was originally Daisy Cook, but I had to change it, because it clashed with another literary Daisy that was out there. Now I actually prefer ‘Lulu Baker’! Sometimes it does take me a while to figure them out: baby name websites help, as does the phone book, and a bit of messing about with words – and sometimes anagrams!
James: Lines In The Sand deserves a special mention here on my site, even though I didn’t actually write a story for it (I just did a cartoon strip!) But it is a remarkable collection of works by people who were united in their opposition to the war in Iraq. Definitely worth getting, not least because all royalties and publisher’s profits go to the children’s charity UNICEF.
I hope you do read Fire & Roses – you can pre-order it on Amazon, but don’t forget it isn’t out until September.
Ah, I sympathise! We never had DT in my school, but I’ve visited lots of schools that do have it – never mind heating pizza, I’d be scared of taking my hand off! Though I know there are always strict controls in place. The trouble is, not everyone is such a keen reader is you! Not a satisfactory answer I know, but…alas, there is no easy solution to this one. For now, you’re stuck with your leisure time for reading! Have you checked out my Writing Tips page? That ought to help.
Glad you enjoyed all the Silk Sister books, as well as Kitty Slade – and book 2 is not so far off! Have a great summer of reading
Hi Fiona! I’ve read the Silk Sisters and Divine Freaks. Loved them all, but then again I say that about nearly everything. If not, then it gets a bit of consructive criticism. I read Kitty Slade in a day or two, but the Silk Sisters took a bit longer because I had school in the way. You know, I wish we had a lesson at school in which we just READ. That would be so much more productive than something like Food Tec or DT. (I’m terrified of the sinister looking drills and sanders in the DT room and once I accidently put my pizza in the grill instead of the oven and wondered why it didn’t cook…) Wish I could write like you – although I’m still valiently trying!
dear Fiona,
i hope your well,
i just wanted to say that you visted my school Beeston Primary and my annoying sister said that i love to write too which i do and i just wanted to ask how you get your book published
ALL MY LOVE TAYLOR STOTT
p.s not to be rude but do you think you can put my name in a book one day Thank you for reading bye
Hi Emily, hey that’s great! Glad you’re enjoying it so much – and glad you enjoyed Pink Chameleon as well (and impressed that you read it so fast!) While you’re waiting for the next Kitty Slade book to come out, maybe you’d like to read Blue Gene Baby and Tiger-Lily Gold, the other two Silk Sisters books. You’ll probably want to know how things turn out! Very much enjoyed visiting your school.
Hello on wednesday 15th june you came to my school Gosforth East Middle school when you were there i bought Divine Freaks im on about page 40 so far and it is so cool and thank you for coming to my school but before you came to my school i read Pink borrowed it of my friends and it only took me two or three days to read it i love your books they are very interesting to read.I am so exiceted for your second Kitty Slade book i will deffintely be one of the first to buy it !!
Dear Fiona,
Thanks for coming into St.Christophers Primary School, I really enjoyed it. i’ve already started to read ‘Divine Freaks’ which I bought when you came to school and im really enjoying it. I love the idea of a girl who can see ghosts…Im hoping to get the next book of Kitty Slade’s adventures, it looks good!
I’d just like to ask you one thing, how do you come up with the characters names? Does it take awhile or does it just pop into your head? Thanks.
Love Hollie.x
dear, fiona hi my name is kyia and did you come to beeston primary school? i got one of your books from today i read one chapter is soooooo great nearly to 3rd chapter great so farrrr
love
kyia
xxxxxxxxxxxx
I love Dr Who too! Although somehow have not kept up with the latest series. You’re right: I don’t know the House of Anubis – though something tells me an Egyptian dog-headed god is involved somehow. Good to chat: enjoy the rest of Divine Freaks!
dear Fiona, I totally agree! I like spooky books with magical elements and I hate fantasies like underwater sea castles and princes and princesses living happily ever after. I love watching scary and mysterious movies and tv series like doctor who and the house of anubis.(you probably haven’t heard of the house of anubis, it’s kind of a 10-year-old show!)
thanks for answering my questions!
lots of love, Alicia.
Hi Alicia – I remember you! First of all, sorry I ran out of time for questions…it was all just so cray-zee! So I’m glad you’ve come to me here, as I suggested. To answer your questions:
Names: actually the character names in Divine Freaks are quite restrained compared to previous books (see Varaminta le Bone in Lulu Baker and Nolita Newbuck in Silk Sisters, for example! Anyway, assuming you’re not talking about Kitty and her family, who have very normal names (although ‘Maro’ is more unusual – I got that from a relative of my husband’s): Roderick Eaton: just wanted someone very posh and middle-aged sounding; Pony & Baloney – well, those nicknames Kitty has for Eaton’s henchmen are explained in the book; Alvaro: just thought of a Spanish name; Hilda and Hortense: these are names that would have been common among older women around 100 years ago. I hope that helps!
Magical element: it just keeps happening that way! I don’t think I could write something totally realistic. And I’ve always been particularly enthralled by books and films that have that particular combination of the magical and the real: total fantasy worlds interest me less. I like the accessibility of it. I hope readers feel that someone like Kitty Slade, for example, might be their friend. She’s not untouchable the way someone from another era or another world might be.
G’day, Elena! No, I am not in the least bit Australian: pretty much 100% British! Thank you so much for our lovely comments about the Lulu Baker books; I hope you go on to enjoy some of my other books too.
Re: writing tips: well, there is a whole page of them here on my site: do take a look! Oddly enough though, I haven’t included the one about carrying a notebook. But yes, it’s always a good idea to record ideas as they come to you. I get all my best ideas at 3am, so I have a pen & pad by my bedside!
As for reading lots of different genres…hmm. Well, it’s good to sample as many different kinds of writing as possible, but if you don’t like, say, science fiction, no reason why you should force yourself. Equally if you REALLY like historical fiction, for example, then go ahead and read as much of it as possible! Follow your passions, but keep an open mind.
G’day Fiona! From ur website I can tell that ur DEFINITLY NOT from australia!(or r u?!) (I am!) I love all of ur books-esp. the lulu baker trilogy!(it seems 2 b really popular with a lot of readers!) i want 2 b a writer 2 one day! the tip i get from most writers when i ask them is 2 read lots of different genres and always have a book near u, so u can jot down ideas 4 stories… would u agree with that? it seems 2 b the major one with writers… anyway that’s all i’ve got to say,
elena!
p.s.i like markets 2! my fave market is always on EVERY sat.! ;D
Hey Ali, it was lovely to meet you! And well done for winning the competition. I had a lot of fun with you and your classmates. Delighted you’re enjoying the book! Do come back soon, when we’ll have some stuff to download.
Hi Fiona,
you came to my school today and I won the compitition in my class.Just wanted to say thank you for today and I have started to read Divine freaks and I am already loving it!!!!
Lots of Love, Ali.x
Hi Rebecca! Thanks for your message. Have you checked out my ‘Writing Tips’ page? If not, take a look! As for story starters/plot lines: write a ghost story! Read the first chapter of Divine Freaks (you’ll find the link on the Kitty Slade page) and take that as your inspiration. If you write a story under 1000 words and I like it, I’ll post it in the gallery.
Hi I love your books I use to hate reading but I love it now. And that’s from reading your amazing books! I love divine freaks since it is intresting and I can’t wait for fire & roses to come out!:]
Hi Macy! Thank you so much for telling me this…that is very gratifying to know. I’m delighted you enjoyed Divine Freaks so much, and know you’re going to love Fire & Roses!
Hi!
I love your books and I can’t wait to read your latest book, Divine Freaks. I was wondering if you could think of a story starter for me? Or a plot-line I could use?
Love,
Rebecca
-x-
Hi Fiona, I’m from germany. Your Lulu Baker books are in german wunderfull too. I love them. Will the new book also published in german? The new sied is realy cool!
(Sorry, for the mistakes)
Hi Kitty, well, that’s very interesting! I think that must be the first such account I’ve come across.
Well, phantom creatures do feature occasionally in the Kitty Slade books – rats appearing in Divine Freaks, of course. And there is a ghost that I think will interest you very much in book four…but I don’t want to say any more about that right now!
However, it is human ghosts that take centre stage, yes. The premise that these spirits have unfinished business in the mortal world is what underpins the whole series. While I suppose this may arguably be possible with the more intelligent animal species as well, it would be far too complicated – not to mention whimsical – to have Kitty engage with them and try to solve their problems too! I hope you agree, and enjoy the books despite the lack of phantom horses!
Dear fiona dunbar,
Your book Kitty Slade has really puzzeled me on something, Can you only see human ghosts? Beacuse on 14 occasions through out 3 years i have seen animals, not just live animals but ones that stay for 10-15 min and then go. the latest at my horses livery yard. I was putting my horse in his field when i looked in the other field, my mums horse was bucking and rearing so i went in to the field and there was a horse wich i have never seen befor i went to touch it but it dissapeered.
Please help me!
Yours scincerly
Kitty Craig
Hi Yinka, yes, I do! And as Divine Freaks is coming out next week, I’m sure this will be on the cards any day now. Do check back! I’ll also send out a notification on my Facebook fan page.
Hi Anna! DEFINITELY not preppy. If indy is a clothing as well as music style, I guess that’s what you’d call it…I think emo has kind of had its day, and anyway it’s not quite Kitty. She’s a one-off!
Oh my goodness!! Thank you so much! I showed my sister what you wrote and she got excited too!! I can’t wait for Kitty Slade Fire & Roses to come out in Autumn because it seems so far away! You do not know how happy I am now, because I read LOTS and I have only ever seen Anna in a book once! Now I know you are going to put my name in one of your Kitty Slade books, for me, is absolutely FANTASTIC!! Thank you!
Hi Anna! Wow, how brilliant: you are the FIRST to have read and commented on Divine Freaks! And I didn’t even know it was out yet! (they told me May 5th)Perhaps you’d like to say something over on the Kitty Slade page too? No spoilers, though!
I will happily put an Anna into one of the books – but can’t guarantee she’ll be nice/not annoying!
Hi Fiona,I loved your Kitty Slade book Divine Freaks!! It was BRILLIANT!! I finished it in two days! I know this is a long shot but do you know the way you said in another comment that you were writing at least six Kitty Slade books, I was wondering could you put me name, Anna, as one of the characters!! Sorry, I just love your books!
Hi Barakat! Thank you so much: it’s lovely to hear from you, and I’m delighted to have my writing described as ‘magical and awesome’! I’m glad you like the TV series – although I think you’ll agree it’s VERY different from the books! But magical and awesome in its own way.
Hi Natalie! Have you read Tiger-Lily Gold? That, I’m afraid, is the last of the Silk Sisters books. It was always going to be a trilogy, not a series. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the books so much that you’re left wanting MORE, though! All I can suggest is that you get hold of a copy of Divine Freaks as soon as it’s out! Do take a look at my Kitty Slade page for more information: there will be at least six books in the series…and who knows? Could be more! I really hope you enjoy Divine Freaks, and future Kitty Slade titles.
Hi Aisha! I’m so glad you enjoyed the Lulu Baker books so much; thank you for writing and telling me! Yes, I think we’d all love to have out very own copy of The Apple Star…well, we can dream!
Thanks Jo!I love Toonhead too. Maybe one day it’ll be reissued, if there’s enough demand! But it’s not my favourite, because I don’t have a favourite – except maybe the one I’m working on now!
Dear Fiona, oooh ooh can I be the first to leave a comment?! I am LOVING your new site, it’s got so much to look at! I have website envy…
My favourite of your books is Toonhead, which I know isn’t the most popular but I thought it was just such a brilliant idea.
Lots of love, Jo x
yay i am going to save up for the book
Don’t know which particular one you mean, but yay anyway! Enjoy.
hi i was wondering if you were going to write any more kitty slade books i think they are really good thanks
If you’ve already read all three of the ones available now, you still have Raven Hearts to look forward to in August! After that…who knows? Keep spreading the word, is all I can say! The more ‘in demand’ I am, the more books there will be.
I am not kidding here but all the kitty Slade books should be turned into a movie it would be so awesome with all the ghost kitty sees especially in Venus rocks when kitty sees the ghost with the under water camera with Ty
Thanks Amelia! Well, here’s hoping – no offers yet, although something else might be happening. Watch this space.
I really want to know when Raven Hearts is going to be out!!!! I just finished VENUS ROCKS it was excellent
It’s coming out on August 2!
hi Fiona!
you inspired me to write andd i went on to win a compertiton at my school thanks sooooo much!!!
love
lola-rose
xxxxx
Wow, that’s brilliant, Lola-Rose: well done!
Hi Fiona, we had a book fair at my school and I bought two books and one of them was Divine Freaks! I would like to ask you, why do you like writing ghost stories? And what is the most useful advice you have been given and who gave you it? I am going to have a go at writing my own ghost story!
Hi Mia, Great! I hope you enjoy it. As I said to Erin the other day (see below) the Kitty Slade stories are more adventure stories featuring ghosts, than straightforward ghost stories. A classic ghost story generally depends on the reader not knowing whether certain things are caused by ghosts, or who the ghost is. So although there are some really creepy moments in Kitty Slade, it’s quite clear who the ghosts are, and the story is always a mystery/adventure. So perhaps the real question is, why do I love writing mystery/adventure stories? I don’t know, I just do! And I do enjoy making them a bit spooky, too. Good luck with your own ghost story!
Hi Fiona you are a fantastic writer and I love your books! But I was wondering which character do you feel closest to?
Ooh, that’s a tricky one…probably Pablo, from Toonhead. There’s not a lot about that book on here, because unfortunately it’s out of print. Which is a real shame, because in some ways it may be my best book. But there’s a bit of me in Lulu, and Rorie Silk as well. Kitty is less like me, more like my daughter.
ok thanks fiona x
Hi Fiona my mum got me Venus Rocks and Fire & Roses Im reading Venus Rocks at the moment and I love How its going, sometimes I be sneeky and read it at night to because its really good and ghostly I love it my mum reads ghost stories too and my mum will proberly be nicking Venus Rocks after Iv finished it and go on to fire & Roses. I would love to get the other books. Thanx for writing them Xxx
Hi Erin, sorry, I forgot to reply! Maybe you’ve finished by now. I don’t know whether you could really categorise the Kitty Slade books as ghost stories – they’re more like adventure stories featuring ghosts! But if your mum dips into them, I hope she enjoys them anyway! Thank you.
This is Jessica and Hannah (the ones that are writing the story,I’m Hannah’s best friend)
We abouslutly love your books! We were just wondering what inspirered you to write about kitty slade?
Thanx love Hannah and Jessica xx
Hi Jessica & Hannah! I hope your writing is coming along nicely. Thank you so much; I’m delighted you enjoy my books! You’ll find the info you’re looking for right here on my site http://www.fionadunbar.com/kitty-slade/.
Happy writing!
Fiona I have read your kitty Slade books and their are amazing i think you are the greatest writer just today i have got Venus rocks how did you come up with the names please tell me thanks love Amelia
Hi Amelia, do you mean the titles of the books, or the names of the characters in Venus Rocks?
Fiona i think your books are amazing, especially the Kitty Slade ones and i would love to be able to write like you. what are the other locations of the books you have planned for the rest of the Kitty Slade books.
Hi Georgina, well Raven Hearts is set in Yorkshire…after that, we’ll have to see. I have lots of ideas and am bursting to write more! Let’s hope books 1-4 sell loads, win awards etc, and then maybe there will be more. I have at least a couple of locations in mind.
I think you should set one on the Isle Of Wight
I love the Kitty Slade Books and I’m started writing some Ghost Books of my own. But it’s the Ghost who tells the story. Do you think it’s a good idea? Also I need a good name for the ghost. She’s a Medieval Princess so it needs to be pretty. Thanks
Love Abi xx
How about Eden? http://www.gaminggeeks.org/Resources/KateMonk/England-Medieval/Saxon.htm
Or Brigida? http://www.gaminggeeks.org/Resources/KateMonk/England-Medieval/Celtic.htm
It’s a fab idea; happy writing!
Fiona Dunbar my one an only idol!I Have read all the kitty slade books cant wait for raven hearts!Without Your Books I Would Never Knew How much i loved writing!i have tried to start a ghost book but it wont be as good as yours please tell me some tips love from Hannah xx
Hi Hannah, it’s great to know I’ve inspired you! Thanks for telling me. Have you checked out the writing tips page I have right here on my website? http://www.fionadunbar.com/writing-tips/ I hope these help, and best of luck with it!
I LOVE YOUR SILK SISTERS BOOKS BUT ME AND MY FRIENDS DONT KNOW WHAT A SHEL IS WHAT IS IT.
Hi Rosie, there’s a footnote on p38 of Pink Chameleon:’Stands for See Hear Everything Live. It’s a phone, document file, camera, music and video player…a mini computer.’
I wrote that before there were iPhones, but essentially they are whatever version of that we’ll be using in about 10 years’ time. Possibly I don’t remind people what they are in books 2 & 3; if not, apologies for that!
Hello Fiona!
Hayley and I read your Silk Sisters trilogy when we were younger and we were reminiscing about them today. We used to race to finish them before each other!They were fantastic books and we just wanted to say thank you! X
Hello Sophie & Hayley, thank you so much for telling me that; brilliant! I love that they stayed with you.
How do you pronounce Nolita’s name?
No-lee-ta! Emphasis on the second syllable.
Thank you, is that a No, or a Noh?
Thx again.
I THINK the phonetic way of putting it is ‘noh’: rhymes with ‘so’!
hi fiona,
i’m a huge fan of yours and i love the kitty slade books you write! i’m halfway through fires and roses and i’m a bit of a book worm!!i was just wondering if you’ll be doing any book tours in ireland any time soon??
Hi Grace, I’d love to come to Ireland! But I haven’t been invited yet. If it ever happens, you can be sure I’ll post info about it here. Delighted you’re a Kitty Slade fan – spread the word!
Hey i am also half way through fire and roses grace i read mine at school cos i’m a free reader which means i can read any book
Enjoy!
Hi Fiona,
I loved your Silk Sisters books. They were amazing! I’ve just finished reading your first Kitty Slade book Divine Freaks and thought it was great. Can’t wait to start reading the second book Fire and Roses!Do you know how many books you will write in the Kitty Slade series?
Thank you for the great books you have written!
Hi Holly, Thanks, that’s great! I always wonder whether fans of eg Silk Sisters will like Kitty Slade, or vice-versa. Re: Kitty Slade, all I can say for now is that there will be another one out this summer, Raven Hearts. After that…we’ll have to see. If you and all your friends spread the word and make her really famous, then there’ll be no stopping her! I’ve got plenty of ideas.
IM ONLY 9 BUT ME AND MY BEST FRIEND
ADORE YOUR SILK SISTERS BOOKS WATERSTONES ASKED ME TO REVIEW YOU BOOK AND I SAID GREAT THINGS ABOUT IT.
Wow, thank you Rosie!
hi fiona im a big fan and i was wondering if in your next kitty slade book if you could use the name maddison thankyou
Sorry Maddison, but unfortunately I get asked this all the time, and I can’t put everyone’s name in! So have had to make it a rule not to do this for anybody. Sorry to disappoint. But if we ever meet, I’ll happily dedicate a copy to you!
i love ur book divine freaks
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the other Kitty Slade books as well.
Hi, Fiona
I LOVE the sound of your ‘Silk Sisters’ books because I love dystopisn fiction My English teacher cojoled me in to reading ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ when I was 16- which was a while ago- and I’ve never looked back.
It’s not a genre I write myself. I’m much better at realistic fiction. But I always admire people who can do the fantastical stuff and do it well. Go, you!
AND you were one of the 1st people to follow me on Twitter.
Thanksxx
Hi Jade, weirdly I’ve not actually read The Handmaid’s Tale, though I feel almost as if I have because it was talked about so much….have read Oryx & Crake, though. I think that was one book that gave me the courage to write Silk Sisters. I do hope you read the books, and let me know what you think! Personally, I admire people who can write realistic fiction well, and I enjoy reading it. Thanks for your lovely message!
Hi again, Fiona
Quick question: I’m writing a story in which my central character has a ‘thing’ about comics(he reads TONNES of them and draws his own). Unfortunately, although comics are something I’m fascinated by, I’m not very knowledgable about them.
Are there any comics/graphic novels I really need to get my teeth in to or books on the subject you could recommend?
Thanksxx
Jadexx
i live near where dr samual johnson used to live. it was lichfield and i’ve been to his birth house twise. its got the real old dictionary in there. i nearly went to king edwards v1 there but i didn’t want to. everyone at my school now calls it king eddie’s
I’ve never been there! I’m sure if I did, I’d come away full of ideas. Must pay a visit!
Hi Fiona
Silk sisters is AMAZING
thanks so much for writing them!!!!!
Love
Jessy
Thanks Jessy!
hi Fiona
I am very passionate about writing, and I really admire your work, I’m always watching people in shops, parks e.c.t for new characters can you give me any advice?
Also are you writing new books any time soon?
Hi Monty, all my best writing advice can be found here: http://www.fionadunbar.com/writing-tips/. Hope that helps! At the moment I am doing the edits on Kitty book four, which is to be called Raven Hearts. You’re going to love it.
Hi,
I just read and enjoyed your post about John Wilkes at the History Girls blog.
If you haven’t read the highly entertaining account of the meeting between Dr. Samuel Johnson and John Wilkes in Boswell’s Life of Johnson, then I highly recommend it.
“I am now to record a very curious incident in Dr. Johnson’s Life, which fell under my own observation; of which pars magna fui, and which I am persuaded will, with the liberal-minded, be much to his credit.
“My desire of being acquainted with celebrated men of every description, had made me, much about the same time, obtain an introduction to Dr. Samuel Johnson and to John Wilkes, Esq. Two men more different could perhaps not be selected out of all mankind…’
But they ended up as friends.
Here’s a copy you can read online:
http://www.archive.org/stream/lifeofsamueljoh03bosw#page/266/mode/2up/
Starting at the top of page 266.
Regards,
Mark Davidson
Brilliant! Thanks for that, Mark. Have read it – fascinating!
HI Fiona
I simply adore your books!
I’m a big fan of the Lulu baker series, pretty please (with a cherry on top) write another one!!!!
I also love the Kitty Slade books I bought the first one in the airport and I was so absorbed I finished it in an hour!
But I wouldn’t be to keen on having kitty’s ability to see the dead!
Quick Question: What gave you the idea to start writing the Lulu Baker series?
Keep writing
From
Jessy
Hi Jessy
Ah, no plans to write another Lulu Baker book, I’m afraid – though lots of people have asked! If you’ve read to the end of Chocolate Wishes, you’ll know why!
Delighted you like Kitty Slade too! I have plenty of ideas for Kitty stories.
In answer to your question: it really was simply that I hit on the idea of writing about a girl with a magic recipe book. Then everything else – Varaminta, Cassandra, the ingredients, how the book came to her, etc – grew out of that.
Keep reading! You might enjoy the Silk Sisters as well.
hi Fiona~
i love all your books so much! ❤
The silk sisters trilogy has to be my favorite trilogy of all time & when i first read pink chameleon, i literally fell in love with the glamorous Nolita Newbuck,the colorful Arthur Clarkson(human and chameleon❤ ) and the idea of spending a day designing freely in fashion world!
I can’t wait for denim jeans to go out of fashion- and slants to take it’s place as one of the most popular garments in the world!
anyway, I’ve always wanted to ask one of my favorite authors a question that might stand out as a little weird, but i’m just plain curious ^ ^ in the 3rd book, Gula’s sister Lilith could see Rorie’s aura, and i was wondering if you yourself could see aura’s too?
After i read the trilogy for the first time I’ve been determined to learn how, but i cannot quite grasp the hole concept… >.<
keep up the good work!
love Leah x
(p.s- i love the color scheme of your website ^o^)
(¯`v´¯)
.`·.¸.·´ ?
¸.·´¸.·´¨) ¸.·*¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´ .·´ ¸
Hi Leah
What a lovely, thoughtful message; thank you so much! You’re right, I was being quite ambitious with Silk Sisters, and it is quite a lot to get your head around – it did my head in a bit when I was writing it, to be honest! If at some point you go back and re-read, it should all come together and make sense to you.
Re: seeing people’s auras: no, that is not a skill I have! But around the time I was embarking on Tiger-Lily Gold I met someone who did, and I thought, ‘I have to write that in, it’s just what’s needed!’ It’s amazing when that happens – serendipity.
Glad you like the website too – and I like your lovely heart-shaped kite!
You are an amazing author! You’re an idol of mine!:) your work mesmerizes me!!! Did I spell that right? Oh well!:)
Sorry Straeten – I didn’t get around to answering right away! Thank you so much – and yes, you did spell it right! I love that you find my writing mesmerising (both -ize and -ise are right) Btw did you know that that word comes from a German doctor called Franz Mesmer? Happy reading.
Fiona! i finished tiger lily gold!!!!!! perfect! but I’m zoo sad its over
thanks for being amazing!!! love u (as an author)
thanks and happy new year!
Straeten:)
heyyy fiona i just love your book and wont stop reading them (bye the way my name isnt actually sexi lexi it’s just lexi but thats what my boyfriend calls me)x
love sexi lexi x
aka lexi x
Hi Lexi…can’t help wondering how old you are! Well, thanks, and I hope you go on enjoying them!
I love your books Fiona Dunbar!!! <3
I LOVE KITTY SLADE there the best books ever plz
Write a forth one plllllllllllllzzzzzzzzzz
It’s written! Coming out next summer.
Hi fiona,
after you visited our school i am really looking foward to reading your books.
Great! I hope you enjoy them. My, Holly’s a popular name!
Fiona your so pretty!! How do you look so young? even though your 47? LOL!
xxxxxx
I’m a shocking sight with no makeup first thing in the morning, Aiman! I have a good photographer. And, um, I’m even older than that… But thank you, you’re very sweet.
hi fiona your books are amazing thank you so much for coming to my school ( brentwood ursuline ) on wednesday, it is very much appreciated, thank you xxx
Thanks Isabelle! You lot were great too!
I Love Kitty Slade!! She’s GREAT! You left a comment for me on the “Your Ghost Stories Page” saying: I thought Lola got the idea of Fire and Roses but it wasn’t out yet (Check it out Lola!)
Sure I’ll check it out!!
Also thank you for visiting our school and Signing MY book!! X
You’re very welcome!
Please please please write another Kitty Slade book!!!!
Well the second one’s out already, the third one’s out in January, and then there will be three more!
Hey Fiona, remember me? I was the first person to comment on ‘Divine Freaks’! I’m really sorry, but remember when you said you would put my name in one of kitty slades books, I was wondering which one it was? I’m really sorry for asking I’m just really excited! I’m gonna buy ‘Fire and Roses’ soon!
Ah, yes…I’d better get on and do that, because I said I would. Unfortunately, since then an awful lot of other people have asked me to do this with their names too, and I can’t possibly do it for everybody! So now I have to make it a rule to say no to such requests. But I promised you that I would, so I will – I don’t know which one, though – sorry.
Thank you Fiona, I can’t wait for it!! Thank you again!
hey fiona, im planning on dressing up as kitty slade for halloween (i no its a bit random because she not scary but its my faverouite book!) so i was wondering does she wear anything specific? thank you love natalie xx
Hey that’s great, I’m really chuffed! You should send me a picture of yourself as Kitty, and I’ll put it up on the site. Well, you can use the image of her from the front cover as a guide: the stripy socks, the Converse sneakers (or other casual shoes if you don’t have those – but NOT trainers! Kitty wouldn’t wear those) She’s a bit Indie and ever-so-slightly Goth, so colours are like those of the book covers and her hair is messily scraped back. Funky silver-coluored jewellery is quite Kitty, too. She’s very Camden Town, basically – though a 13-year-old, non-scary version of that. Have fun!
hey i wrote on your KITTY SLADE page awell i just wanted to ask what is you fav book you wrote and whats you favrouite book to read. thanks your a great writer fiona love th e books cannt wait till fire and roses come out
love rosie xxxx
Hi Rosie, I don’t have a favourite among the books I’ve written – though at any given time, the one I’m most excited about it the one I’m writing! As for a favourite book by someone else – that changes all the time too. Take a look at ‘my favourite reads’ for some examples!
Oh, and by the way, Fire & Roses is ALREADY OUT!
oh yeah!!! i so silly lol ummm i just love youuuu please dont stop writing !!!!!!!!! xxxxxxx
Hi Fiona,
Just wanted to say that I loved all your books.
Thank you!
Hi Fiona,
I can’t wait for venus rocks to come out! When Fire and roses came out I couldn’t wait to get to the shops! I first saw those books in an advert in girltalk magazine. so I thought I would try it and I loved it! I have only read the Kitty slade books but I am now starting to read the Silk sisters books. No one in my class have heard of you before but we are doing a talk about our favourite person in English and I’m doing about you and your books so hopefully I will get more people interested!
Hi Emily, well thanks! I’m a bit disappointed that no one else in your class knew of me, but hey, you’re spreading the word, so that’s great! I hope you get a good mark for your report.
thanks
Hello Fiona ,
I’m Katy and i’m 11 years old. The silk sisters book is wonderful ! I bet you enjoyed writing them . Please write some more ! They’re amazing !
Hi Katy, and thanks! Have you read all three? I’m sorry, but I’m not planning to write any more Silk Sisters books, because the story really does come to an end with Tiger-Lily Gold. But do try some of my other books!
hello mrs dunbar
i have also put a comment on the lulu baker page but i have just seen that your link to the scrapbook is a picture of abba. i love abba music and i got realy exited when i saw it because normaly, well were i live anyway, abba isnt very popular. do you like abba?
Hello again…btw, please don’t call me Mrs Dunbar! I’m Fiona. I don’t know where you saw a link to Abba the band…are you sure it isn’t the blog page ABBA (An Awfully Big Blog Adventure)? It’s a great blog – but you’ve reminded me, I must update my links page. If you haven’t checked out http://girlsheartbooks.com, go take a look! Re: the Swedish band: not especially my taste, but they certainly did thrash out some big tunes! I enjoyed the stage play of Mamma Mia! but didn’t care for the film.
hi! ive just started fire and roses. i was practicly begging my mum to let me go to the book shop on our shopping trip. im really glad theres still venus rocks to come. im sure ill want to know what happens next! you probably want to hear something new but i cant say anything at ALL youd want to hear. ill tell you when ive come up with something.
Hey Rosie, that’s great! I really hope you enjoy it. It’s fine just to let me know you’re happy that you’ve got the book – I’m happy you have too! Let me know what you think when you’ve finished.
Fiona, I have a book for kids and believe it or not my book’s name is A Kitty named Fiona. I know you make illstrations for kids’ books. I hope in the future I can make a book for grown ups like you. You say in the beggining it not easy for you. Now its different, thank you for giving me courage to keep going.
HI Maria, Well, how about that! You’re right, it is a very tough business to get into, and you have to work at improving all the time. I’m glad to have inspired you; keep at it! As you know, I can’t give individual advice, but do check my ‘Writers’ Tips’ page if you haven’t already, and good luck!
Why you wrote the books in the future? Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm………. Well, you said in your interview that you wanted something with fashion, and then you found about something called Smart Clothing, which I think means clothing like what Rorie and Elsies mother and father invented, but I’m not sure. So then that fabulous idea pops into your head (sometimes the same thing happen to me
Now about the thing with the same thing except a little more exaggerated… The Shel (I’m not so sure anymore because I read the books about 1 or 2 weeks ago). I think you described them and told stuff that really wasn’t that possible. Oh, and the video game where it feels like your really in the world. But, as I said before, I’m not really sure
HI BIGFAN, well, you’ve identified a lot of futuristic things that are in the books, but you started out asking about whether any ‘lesson’ could be learned, and so from that perspective I hope readers come away having thought a bit about consumerism – I talk about that in the interview – and the obsession with celebrity for its own sake that prevails in some parts of the media. That was the point of setting it in the future: to exaggerate these things, so that we can see how ludicrous they are. And there’s a hefty dose of what-if: what if it really were possible to steal someone’s identity?
But above all it’s a rollicking good fantasy and I want people to be gripped and entertained! Thanks for your comments!
I’m not very sure. But I have a theory. Maybe your trying to tell us that if we have sisters, we should stick together, because only then we’ll achieve our goals.
OK, well, that sounds like a good idea to me! But do you have any thoughts about why it’s set in the future? Is there anything about the world described in it that you recognise in our world – only perhaps exaggerated? It’s OK, I’m not testing you! I’m just interested in your thoughts.
Hello, Mrs.Dunbar. I am a very big fan of yours and can not wait to read the rest of your books. I only have a few questions:
What are you trying to tell in this story? Is there a lesson to be learned by us readers?
Sincerly,
BIGFAN
Hello BIGFAN (like the name!
) Which book are you referring to?
The Silk Sisters.
P.S They are brilliant
I’m really glad you asked that! First of all, I’d like to know what thoughts you have yourself about that. I’m really interested!
hi fiona
loved divine freaks (aka:best book ever)i loved it when you came to st.christopher i totaly enjoyed it.
love
katiexx
Thanks Katie! “Best book ever”? I’ll take that!
thank you for answering my question and i’ve read one of the kitty books there brill
Great; thanks!
hello Fiona,
i love ‘the truth cookie’, Lulu Baker trilogy!
Its my fav!!!!!!!!!!
i borrowed it at my school! i couldnt stop reading it!!!!
Thanks Georgia! Love the you couldn’t put it down! Hope you’ll enjoy Kitty Slade too.
Hiya Fiona I heart your books .
So far i am the only Danel in the world as far as i know and it woould be highly apriciated if you could use my name in one of your books . (i Know im cheeky right?!)
Furthermore coz im a nose person i would like to know : My surname is Daley which is Irish ; is Dunbar scottish?
What is your fave coluor? ( btw mine is AQUAMARINE )
Finally when you were little what did you want to be when you grew up (is grew a word ???)
I llllllluuuuurrrrrvvvvveeeee your book s ure my role model.
Gotta love ya and leave ya!
DANEL . S . DALEY xxx
Hi Danel
I’m sorry but I do get asked to put people’s names in my books a lot, so I do have to say no, I’m afraid!
Yes, Dunbar is Scottish; my father is from Kingussie.
Fave colour: I don’t really have one! Sorry, that’s a bit boring. OK, I like BRONZE.
I always thought I would grow up to be an artist, because that’s what I seemed to be best at!
Thanks for writing in!
Hi Fiona!
x
Your books are getting better and better everytime I snuggle down, sip me hot chococlate and pick up one of your books!
I loved the Silk Sister Series! I liked the way you created the characters! All outgoing with mystery! I’m SO going to read Kitty Slade! And clearly…
< you have many other fans who are going to, too!
Keep writing the magic you write!
One of your dedicated readers, Sara
Thanks Sara! You have made me smile today – and as I have said elsewhere, hope you enjoy Kitty Slade!
Can you please visit Lewis Elementry School in Solon in 2011 and if you can’t then in 2012 visit Orchard Middle School also in Solon? My friends either call me Vi (the i makes the I in I’m) or Amika. I was born in China then brought to Japan when I was 4 years old and then came to America when I was 8 years old and I’m nine. I love yuor books.
hey
im geting kitty slide on saturday
it sounds really really gud
my friend has that book
she is have done it and thinks its really gud
bye
xxxxxxxxx
Hi Lulu
Sorry, only just come across your message. Perhaps by now you have read it? Let me know what you think!
Hi Fiona!
I am a massive fan of yours! I have read the Silk Sisters series, Kitty Slade and the Lulu Baker books! I just wanted to let you know how inspiring you are and also a huge role model for me and many other girls!
Thanks for everything!
Georgie
Hi Georgie! Wow, thanks! *blushes* I’d better not do anything daft now that I’m a role model – don’t want to let you down!
Ah, it’s OK, I think I’ll cope. It’s particularly lovely to hear from people who love ALL my books – though I’m sure you must like some more than others. So THANK YOU! Hope you enjoy the rest of the Kitty Slade books. 
Hi Fiona,
I loved your lulu baker series and Divine Freaks.Fire and roses has sold out in my local bookstore and I am waiting impatiently for it to be delivered i don’t think I can bear it any longer.Your an excellent author, and when I grow up,I want to be just like you!!!
I have a question, why did you call divine freaks by that name?
I can never think of good names for my stories. How did you come up with such a Cool name !!!
from Alannah
Hi Alannah
Fire & Roses won’t have sold out, because it’s not published yet! It comes out on Sept 1st. I’m delighted you liked the title Divine Freaks! It did take me a while to come up with it. If you’ve read the book, you’ll have some idea why: there’s Mr Divine, of course. And then there’s…the freaks. I’ll leave it at that.
Thank you so much for your kind comments!
Sorry Disha, messages are not in order…going to fix this!
You MADE IT UP? How dare you! Making up stories: that’s a BAD thing to do
And to think they even PAY me to do it! Had a great time at your school.
Keep up with the storytelling!
Hi Bethany
Yay! Thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed meeting you all
Hi Fiona, remember me? I am from St. Cristopher primary school. I bought the book ‘ Divine Freaks’ and you signed it. you said ” do you believe in ghosts? you know the St. christopher ghost ( it dosn’t exist) i just made that up. I can’t believe i actually met someone famous!! your my no.1 author! Love you!!! from Disha Pala. xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
hi fiona!! you came to st-christopher and i bout one of your books i love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
lots of love,bethany
Hi Livvie
I’m delighted you chose Blue Gene Baby for your project! How I came up with the idea is really something that’s relevant to the trilogy as a whole, of course (have you read Pink Chameleon, by the way?)
Ages ago I did some drawings for what was to be a graphic novel: a satirical, dystopian vision of the not-too-distant future. That featured monsters and everything…alas, I was too busy writing ‘proper’ novels to create the graphic novel (also, my agent steered me away from that!) But I didn’t want to throw the whole thing out, so I thought of a way to work the idea into a novel. Minimerica stemmed from the idea that there would be a sort of junkyard for used-up celebrities: I really wanted to send up celebrity culture, as the progression is towards more and more disposeablilty. I also hate what it does in particular to women and girls’ sense of their self-worth – the obsession with appearance has got way out of hand, in my opinion.
OK, I could rabbit on and on about this…alongside all of that of course is Rorie’s own journey, and how she feels about the different roles she plays with each of her guises – the Elvis one being the pivotal one here! Basically I went as OTT as I could, and had a ball writing it – Tiger-Lily Gold tips right over into a James Bond-type scenario.
Any other questions, ask away!
Hey, i am doing a book project at school and have choosen your book silk sisters gene baby.I think this a brillant book but i would like to know how you came up with the idea. Thank you very mugh.
xxxx
Loveeee Livvie
Hi Elsie,
Well, you’re not the first to ask for another Silk Sisters book, and I’m sure you won’t be the last! But I really do feel that Tiger-Lily Gold wrapped the whole story up, so at the moment I have no plans to write another one. But have you tried Divine Freaks? If you do and you like it, you’ll have at least another five Kitty Slade books to look forward to!
I’m chuffed that you like my books so much, but I’m sure there must be books by other authors you’d like too! I’d like to make suggestions but don’t know what your interests are…a good librarian or bookseller can certainly help, though! Good luck
PS £1000 million? Is that all?
hi fiona my names elsie when i first read the fiona dunba series i could not put it down like everybody else i dont have to ask you to put my name in it because it already is ( lol ) pretty pretty please could u write 1 more silk story it has put me off reading coz i usaually only read your books i will pay u 1000000000 pounds just kidding lolololo
PS Taylor, re: putting your name into one of my books: I’ve made a note of it, but I can’t promise anything – sorry! I run the risk of having too many people ask this, and if that happens I won’t be able to oblige every time!
Oops, had already answered Emily…onto Taylor. Ah yes, I remember your ‘annoying’ sister! Ah but she meant well
I hope you’ve taken a look at my Writing Tips page. There’s nothing in there about how to get published, because I think at this point you just need to concentrate on the writing itself: have fun with it, make it as good as you can, read a lot.
But if you’re asking about how I got published: step one was asking the advice of writer friends; step two, buying the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook: step three, finding myself an agent.
Happy reading & writing!
Hollie: with Kitty Slade, I found coming up with the name quite easy: it pretty much did pop into my head. Lulu Baker was originally Daisy Cook, but I had to change it, because it clashed with another literary Daisy that was out there. Now I actually prefer ‘Lulu Baker’! Sometimes it does take me a while to figure them out: baby name websites help, as does the phone book, and a bit of messing about with words – and sometimes anagrams!
So glad you’re enjoying Divine Freaks!
James: Lines In The Sand deserves a special mention here on my site, even though I didn’t actually write a story for it (I just did a cartoon strip!) But it is a remarkable collection of works by people who were united in their opposition to the war in Iraq. Definitely worth getting, not least because all royalties and publisher’s profits go to the children’s charity UNICEF.
I hope you do read Fire & Roses – you can pre-order it on Amazon, but don’t forget it isn’t out until September.
India & Kyia: thank you! Kyia: so glad you’re enjoying it
India, Kyia, James, Hollie, Emily and Taylor…sorry, only just saw your messages today! Am now going to answer each of you…
Hi Mimi
Ah, I sympathise! We never had DT in my school, but I’ve visited lots of schools that do have it – never mind heating pizza, I’d be scared of taking my hand off! Though I know there are always strict controls in place. The trouble is, not everyone is such a keen reader is you! Not a satisfactory answer I know, but…alas, there is no easy solution to this one. For now, you’re stuck with your leisure time for reading! Have you checked out my Writing Tips page? That ought to help.
Glad you enjoyed all the Silk Sister books, as well as Kitty Slade – and book 2 is not so far off! Have a great summer of reading
Hi Fiona! I’ve read the Silk Sisters and Divine Freaks. Loved them all, but then again I say that about nearly everything. If not, then it gets a bit of consructive criticism. I read Kitty Slade in a day or two, but the Silk Sisters took a bit longer because I had school in the way. You know, I wish we had a lesson at school in which we just READ. That would be so much more productive than something like Food Tec or DT. (I’m terrified of the sinister looking drills and sanders in the DT room and once I accidently put my pizza in the grill instead of the oven and wondered why it didn’t cook…) Wish I could write like you – although I’m still valiently trying!
dear Fiona,
i hope your well,
i just wanted to say that you visted my school Beeston Primary and my annoying sister said that i love to write too which i do and i just wanted to ask how you get your book published
ALL MY LOVE TAYLOR STOTT
p.s not to be rude but do you think you can put my name in a book one day Thank you for reading bye
Hi Emily, hey that’s great! Glad you’re enjoying it so much – and glad you enjoyed Pink Chameleon as well (and impressed that you read it so fast!) While you’re waiting for the next Kitty Slade book to come out, maybe you’d like to read Blue Gene Baby and Tiger-Lily Gold, the other two Silk Sisters books. You’ll probably want to know how things turn out! Very much enjoyed visiting your school.
Hello on wednesday 15th june you came to my school Gosforth East Middle school when you were there i bought Divine Freaks im on about page 40 so far and it is so cool and thank you for coming to my school but before you came to my school i read Pink borrowed it of my friends and it only took me two or three days to read it i love your books they are very interesting to read.I am so exiceted for your second Kitty Slade book i will deffintely be one of the first to buy it !!
Dear Fiona,
Thanks for coming into St.Christophers Primary School, I really enjoyed it. i’ve already started to read ‘Divine Freaks’ which I bought when you came to school and im really enjoying it. I love the idea of a girl who can see ghosts…Im hoping to get the next book of Kitty Slade’s adventures, it looks good!
I’d just like to ask you one thing, how do you come up with the characters names? Does it take awhile or does it just pop into your head? Thanks.
Love Hollie.x
I like the look of divine freeks, i also want to read lines in the sand along with fire and roses.
dear, fiona hi my name is kyia and did you come to beeston primary school? i got one of your books from today i read one chapter is soooooo great nearly to 3rd chapter great so farrrr
love
kyia
xxxxxxxxxxxx
your books are ace
Thanks Kayleigh; I had a lot of fun!
hey, how are u thank you for coming to chancellor park primary school we hope u have a nice day from kayleigh xx
I love Dr Who too! Although somehow have not kept up with the latest series. You’re right: I don’t know the House of Anubis – though something tells me an Egyptian dog-headed god is involved somehow. Good to chat: enjoy the rest of Divine Freaks!
dear Fiona, I totally agree! I like spooky books with magical elements and I hate fantasies like underwater sea castles and princes and princesses living happily ever after. I love watching scary and mysterious movies and tv series like doctor who and the house of anubis.(you probably haven’t heard of the house of anubis, it’s kind of a 10-year-old show!)
thanks for answering my questions!
lots of love, Alicia.
Hi Alicia – I remember you! First of all, sorry I ran out of time for questions…it was all just so cray-zee! So I’m glad you’ve come to me here, as I suggested. To answer your questions:
Names: actually the character names in Divine Freaks are quite restrained compared to previous books (see Varaminta le Bone in Lulu Baker and Nolita Newbuck in Silk Sisters, for example! Anyway, assuming you’re not talking about Kitty and her family, who have very normal names (although ‘Maro’ is more unusual – I got that from a relative of my husband’s): Roderick Eaton: just wanted someone very posh and middle-aged sounding; Pony & Baloney – well, those nicknames Kitty has for Eaton’s henchmen are explained in the book; Alvaro: just thought of a Spanish name; Hilda and Hortense: these are names that would have been common among older women around 100 years ago. I hope that helps!
Magical element: it just keeps happening that way! I don’t think I could write something totally realistic. And I’ve always been particularly enthralled by books and films that have that particular combination of the magical and the real: total fantasy worlds interest me less. I like the accessibility of it. I hope readers feel that someone like Kitty Slade, for example, might be their friend. She’s not untouchable the way someone from another era or another world might be.
Delighted you’re enjoying the book so much!
Hi Fiona! I’m Alicia. I went to ghostarama at the 2011 Hay Festival and I just wanted to ask you a few questions about your books:
1.How did you come up with the names for the characters in DIVINE FREAKS?
2.Why did you choose for all of your books to have some sort of magical element?(not that is a bad thing, i’m just curious!)
Lots of love, Alicia.x
P.S. I love your book DIVINE FREAKS, I just can’t put it down!
G’day, Elena! No, I am not in the least bit Australian: pretty much 100% British! Thank you so much for our lovely comments about the Lulu Baker books; I hope you go on to enjoy some of my other books too.
Re: writing tips: well, there is a whole page of them here on my site: do take a look! Oddly enough though, I haven’t included the one about carrying a notebook. But yes, it’s always a good idea to record ideas as they come to you. I get all my best ideas at 3am, so I have a pen & pad by my bedside!
As for reading lots of different genres…hmm. Well, it’s good to sample as many different kinds of writing as possible, but if you don’t like, say, science fiction, no reason why you should force yourself. Equally if you REALLY like historical fiction, for example, then go ahead and read as much of it as possible! Follow your passions, but keep an open mind.
G’day Fiona! From ur website I can tell that ur DEFINITLY NOT from australia!(or r u?!) (I am!) I love all of ur books-esp. the lulu baker trilogy!(it seems 2 b really popular with a lot of readers!) i want 2 b a writer 2 one day! the tip i get from most writers when i ask them is 2 read lots of different genres and always have a book near u, so u can jot down ideas 4 stories… would u agree with that? it seems 2 b the major one with writers… anyway that’s all i’ve got to say,
elena!
p.s.i like markets 2! my fave market is always on EVERY sat.! ;D
Hey Ali, it was lovely to meet you! And well done for winning the competition. I had a lot of fun with you and your classmates. Delighted you’re enjoying the book! Do come back soon, when we’ll have some stuff to download.
Hi Fiona,
you came to my school today and I won the compitition in my class.Just wanted to say thank you for today and I have started to read Divine freaks and I am already loving it!!!!
Lots of Love, Ali.x
Hi Rebecca! Thanks for your message. Have you checked out my ‘Writing Tips’ page? If not, take a look! As for story starters/plot lines: write a ghost story! Read the first chapter of Divine Freaks (you’ll find the link on the Kitty Slade page) and take that as your inspiration. If you write a story under 1000 words and I like it, I’ll post it in the gallery.
Hi I love your books I use to hate reading but I love it now. And that’s from reading your amazing books! I love divine freaks since it is intresting and I can’t wait for fire & roses to come out!:]
Hi Macy! Thank you so much for telling me this…that is very gratifying to know. I’m delighted you enjoyed Divine Freaks so much, and know you’re going to love Fire & Roses!
Hi!
I love your books and I can’t wait to read your latest book, Divine Freaks. I was wondering if you could think of a story starter for me? Or a plot-line I could use?
Love,
Rebecca
-x-
Hi Kate! Thanks so much for doing your best with the English – you are perfectly easy to understand! Es ist wunderbar. < (my rubbish German)
I REALLY HOPE Kitty Slade will be published in Germany, but I don’t know yet!
Vielen Dank für das Schreiben mir.
Hi Fiona, I’m from germany. Your Lulu Baker books are in german wunderfull too. I love them. Will the new book also published in german? The new sied is realy cool!
(Sorry, for the mistakes)
You know,Its me again and i just came to say my favourite book so far is Divine Freaks and i will DEFINETLY get Fire And Roses!!!!!
Hi Kitty, well, that’s very interesting! I think that must be the first such account I’ve come across.
Well, phantom creatures do feature occasionally in the Kitty Slade books – rats appearing in Divine Freaks, of course. And there is a ghost that I think will interest you very much in book four…but I don’t want to say any more about that right now!
However, it is human ghosts that take centre stage, yes. The premise that these spirits have unfinished business in the mortal world is what underpins the whole series. While I suppose this may arguably be possible with the more intelligent animal species as well, it would be far too complicated – not to mention whimsical – to have Kitty engage with them and try to solve their problems too! I hope you agree, and enjoy the books despite the lack of phantom horses!
Dear fiona dunbar,
Your book Kitty Slade has really puzzeled me on something, Can you only see human ghosts? Beacuse on 14 occasions through out 3 years i have seen animals, not just live animals but ones that stay for 10-15 min and then go. the latest at my horses livery yard. I was putting my horse in his field when i looked in the other field, my mums horse was bucking and rearing so i went in to the field and there was a horse wich i have never seen befor i went to touch it but it dissapeered.
Please help me!
Yours scincerly
Kitty Craig
Hi Yinka, yes, I do! And as Divine Freaks is coming out next week, I’m sure this will be on the cards any day now. Do check back! I’ll also send out a notification on my Facebook fan page.
Hi Fiona! I’m a big fan of yours
Do you do competitions, as I’d really love a chance to win one of your books, or something book themed! xox
Hi Anna! DEFINITELY not preppy. If indy is a clothing as well as music style, I guess that’s what you’d call it…I think emo has kind of had its day, and anyway it’s not quite Kitty. She’s a one-off!
Hey Fiona, what would you call Kitty’s style, examples: preppy, emo, punk, artsy…etc! its because I like the way you describe her style!!
Oh my goodness!! Thank you so much! I showed my sister what you wrote and she got excited too!! I can’t wait for Kitty Slade Fire & Roses to come out in Autumn because it seems so far away! You do not know how happy I am now, because I read LOTS and I have only ever seen Anna in a book once! Now I know you are going to put my name in one of your Kitty Slade books, for me, is absolutely FANTASTIC!! Thank you!
Hi Anna! Wow, how brilliant: you are the FIRST to have read and commented on Divine Freaks! And I didn’t even know it was out yet! (they told me May 5th)Perhaps you’d like to say something over on the Kitty Slade page too? No spoilers, though!
I will happily put an Anna into one of the books – but can’t guarantee she’ll be nice/not annoying!
Hi Fiona,I loved your Kitty Slade book Divine Freaks!! It was BRILLIANT!! I finished it in two days! I know this is a long shot but do you know the way you said in another comment that you were writing at least six Kitty Slade books, I was wondering could you put me name, Anna, as one of the characters!! Sorry, I just love your books!
Hi Barakat! Thank you so much: it’s lovely to hear from you, and I’m delighted to have my writing described as ‘magical and awesome’! I’m glad you like the TV series – although I think you’ll agree it’s VERY different from the books! But magical and awesome in its own way.
Hi Fiona. I love the Lulu Baker books. They are so magical and awesome. I am so glad it’s now a tv series.
Do you have information on the next book in the Silk Sister stories?
Hi Natalie! Have you read Tiger-Lily Gold? That, I’m afraid, is the last of the Silk Sisters books. It was always going to be a trilogy, not a series. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the books so much that you’re left wanting MORE, though! All I can suggest is that you get hold of a copy of Divine Freaks as soon as it’s out! Do take a look at my Kitty Slade page for more information: there will be at least six books in the series…and who knows? Could be more! I really hope you enjoy Divine Freaks, and future Kitty Slade titles.
Hi Aisha! I’m so glad you enjoyed the Lulu Baker books so much; thank you for writing and telling me! Yes, I think we’d all love to have out very own copy of The Apple Star…well, we can dream!
Hi Fiona I’m Aisha and I love the Lulu Baker books it’s very magical I wish I have a magic cookbook.
Thanks Jo!I love Toonhead too. Maybe one day it’ll be reissued, if there’s enough demand! But it’s not my favourite, because I don’t have a favourite – except maybe the one I’m working on now!
Dear Fiona, oooh ooh can I be the first to leave a comment?! I am LOVING your new site, it’s got so much to look at! I have website envy…
My favourite of your books is Toonhead, which I know isn’t the most popular but I thought it was just such a brilliant idea.
Lots of love, Jo x