Sue Purkiss

Sue Purkiss started writing books for children's at an astoundingly advanced age, and consequently decided that having started late, she'd better get a move on and try out lots of differnt genres. So far, she's had three witchy/ghosty books for young children published; a 'contemporary' novel - The Willow Man - and two historical novels. The first of these, Warrior King, is a re-imagining of the story of Alfred the Great, partly told through the eyes of his daughter, Fleda. Sue thinks it's a shame that just about everyone knows about King Arthur, who - the chances are - was imaginary; and very few people know much about Alfred, who was a hugely significant and very interesting character, and was also REAL.

Emily's Surprising Voyage, her most recent book, is again for younger readers, and is set on Brunel's beautiful ship, the ss Great Britain. It tells the story of Emily and her friend Tom, and some of the adventures they have en route for Australia.

Possibly Sue's favourite character in all her books is Cerys, from Warrior King. Cerys has silver eyes and more than a touch of magic about her. Sue does not have silver eyes, but was born with six fingers, which she is reliably told is a sign of witchery. (NB Anne Boleyn) Draw your own conclusions.