Why should we read your current book?

That's almost impossible to answer! Because it was built from authentic emotion.

Who was your childhood hero?
Atticus Finch, because he was a humble yet heroic person and a very loving father.

What was your favourite book when you were younger?

I never had a favourite book! I liked all kinds of things – science fiction so I read Heinlen and Ray Bradbury and I also liked reading about kids like myself so I read Judy Blume and Norma Klein and Paula Danzinger and a lot of other writers. I also read James Herriot!

Did you read a lot as a child and do you still read children's books now?

Yes, I read a whole lot as a child and of course I still read children's books. The last book I read was Katherine Rundell's Rooftoppers and it was transporting.

What was the last book you had recommended to you and what book would you recommend to us?

The last book I can remember reading on a strong recommendation is Ruth Ozeki's A Tale for the Time Being. It was wonderful and I recommend it to everyone without reservation.

What advice would you give to your 10-year-old self?

Be less sensitive. I think things hit me very hard and I wish I had allowed things to roll off my back a little bit more.

What would you be if you hadn't been a writer?

I would probably still be a public defender [a legal aid lawyer].

If you could travel in time, where would you go first?

Straight to the future, maybe 100 years ahead just as a start.

What is the weirdest thing a fan has ever said and/or given to you?

I would never look a gift horse in the mouth. I've had some lovely homemade earrings and recently a wall hanging made in the style of Geroges Seurat. More wonderful than weird!

What is your next book going to be about?
I never talk about my next book becaue it's still in progress in my head but it's most defintiely a book for children. It'll probably be out in 2015.