I have visited Seven Stories – The National Centre for Children’s Books – many times before. Not only is it jam-packed with booky goodies and wonderful exhibitions, but it is also the closest bookshop to where I live! How lucky is that!!

I doubt there are many writers and aspiring writers that have wondered through it’s wonderful rooms without dreaming of having their book on their bookshelf, a exhibition of their own or holding an event in the impressive attic space.

Well, this lucky writer has had all his dreams come true. I was invited to give a talk about my book to an attic full of readers. It’s hard to explain just how nervous I was, but the Seven Stories staff (in particular, the incredibly enthusiastic Lorna!) and my lovely audience made me feel very welcome and I even started to enjoy myself!

Afterwards, some kind people even joined me in the book shop to get copies of The Great Chocoplot signed. It was great talking to everyone about chocolatey things and having a giggle along the way.

Thank you to everyone who came along and to all the staff at Seven Stories. I had a fantastic afternoon!