Details
Mission: Find Mum is my first book for children aged 10-12, suitable for school years 6 - 8.
I live in Manchester, but like the book's main character, Isla, I grew up in Birmingham but never visited Scotland, even though I was part Scottish. Unlike Isla, I knew about my heritage. As I love the Hebrides, I decided to create a mystery that centred on an unspoken Celtic heritage which Isla unwittingly discovered. She and Lac set out to find their mum, but ended up finding much more.
My wife and I brought up our blended family of five children always aware of their origins and to know where they belong. Truth is very important.
Isla and Lac's discovery of the truth about their family both solves problems but also poses questions for the future. Learning this is part of Isla's journey towards growing up, dealing with being bullied for her deafness and supporting her mum through mental health difficulties.
The story deals with current issues of climate activism and (spoiler alert) undercover policing.
My UK publisher is Stairwell Books www.stairwellbooks.co.uk Other publicity is handled by Rose Drew rose@stairwellbooks.com
To arrange an author session at your school, please contact me direct on josomerset@gmail.com I am happy to travel to your location.
Every author talk or creative writing workshop that I give will include a free copy of Mission: Find Mum for your school library.
Fee negotiable. Travel expenses at cost.
Testimonials:
'Such a brilliant read.' Jackie Kay
'Jo had a wonderful rapport with the students. Engaging them gently by asking questions and leading them through various activities and onto some creative writing, where they were able to start their own story. A must for all your budding writers in Years 6 and 7.' Rachel Hockey, Librarian, Chorlton High School, Manchester.
'Amazing, flabbergasting, mindbogglingly wonderful.' Lily, aged 11
'I couldn't put it down! The whole plot was original and refreshing. It addressed the issues of mental health in parents, a child with a disability and the effect that stress and anxiety can have on a child.' Sarah Wimperis, Principal of Westwood Academy, Oldham.
'Exciting, lots of plot twists, tense, fast pace.' Tatiana, Wahida, Ibrahim and Habiba, Year 6, Westwood Academy.
'A beautiful, gripping, realistic story about a brave girl and her little brother on a seemingly impossible quest. An unpredictable rollercoaster from start to finish. There's a wonderful sense of place, and the ending satisfied me completely. ' Clare Weze, author of The Lighting Catcher and The Storm Swimmer
'By the end of this touching and unpredictable coming-of-age story, the Mission has gathered layers of meaning in an ever-deepening mystery and adventure. Just when it looks like Isla and Lac have accomplished one mission, another begins. A unique tale with a vivid setting and dynamic characters. I was Hooked to the end.' Jennifer Burkinshaw, author of Igloo and The Happiness Seeker
