#putridpotions

Over the years, as a reader first, and now as a bookseller, I have come across some real gems. Some have been from authors that I was already familiar with, whilst others have been from newly published authors.*

One such newbie is Lorraine Gregory, published by OUP. Several months ago, a proof copy of ‘Mold and the Poison Plot’ landed on the doormat at Chicken and Frog and I was instantly drawn to it. Firstly, the title is fantastic; secondly, Tom Mead has created a very striking front cover, and thirdly, the blurb pulled on my heart-strings. And so, I read it. In one day. It’s glorious.

Last academic year, Lorraine visited Larchwood Primary, for workshops and an assembly. The audience (children and adults) had a wonderful time, so we were delighted when Lorraine agreed to come along to a Creative Writing Club session at the shop. The room was full of young writers, all eager to share their ideas about #putridpotions with each other.

Thanks to Lorraine for inspiring the children to pick up a pen and have a go at creating spells of their own.

*N.B. Newly published authors have invariably been honing their craft for many years, behind the scenes. It is very rare to become an overnight sensation, without an awful lot of hard work, dedication, tea and biscuits.