Northern Highlights - Aneesa Marufu
NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS
Aneesa Marufu
Where are you based, and how would you sum up the place in three words?
I live in Manchester and I would describe the place as lively, diverse and busy.
What is special to you about writing children's books, and what is your favourite part of the process?
i think the reason I love writing for young adults is because that was the age I truly fell in love with reading. My biggest hope of writing for that age group is to be able to ignite that same passion for reading in teenagers today.
Tell us about the most recent books you've worked on
My debut, The Balloon Thief, published on World Book Day at the beginning of March, is a South Asian inspired Young Adult fantasy about Khadija and Jacob, from two opposing races. As the book unfolds, the characters must put their differences aside to tackle a greater threat, and in doing so learn the importance of friendship and forgiveness.
The Balloon Thief, Chicken House Ltd 2022
If you could be transported to anywhere in the North/Scotland right now, where would it be?
I would probably be transported to Edinburgh. It is a city with so much historical beauty and there is so much to see and do there!
What literary/kid lit events have you attended or been involved with recently in the North/Scotland?
As we are just coming out of the other side of the pandemic, all my events have so far been virtual, however I am looking forward to a few in-person events I have lined up later in the year, particularly the Northern YA Lit Fest as it will be great opportunity to meet other authors from the North.
Name your favourite children’s book set in the North/Scotland
The Ghost of Gosswater by Lucy Strange is a thrilling gothic tale set in the Lake District that had me hooked from beginning to end!
What advice would you give to aspiring authors living in the North and Scotland?
To take advantage of the literary events that still remain virtual, which has definitely opened up a lot of doors for authors in the North that were previously restricted by distance.
What would you like to see from children's publishing in the North and Scotland?
More opportunities for those wanting to progress into careers in publishing as the majority of opportunities still remain in London and the South of England.
Who for you are the great Northern/Scottish children’s writers/illustrators?
There are so many, but names that immediately spring to mind are Danielle Jawando, Beatrix Potter, Kenneth Grahame and David Almond.
What’s next on your TBR pile by a Northern/Scottish creative?
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