August saw Picture Book Club on holiday in sunny Devon. Although there is already a flourishing SW chapter of PBC, we decided to go even further South West and met in Exeter on 22nd August. Waterstones in Exeter could not have been more welcoming! As well as many lovely books and helpful, friendly booksellers, they also have a café where we gathered to meet successful local picture book author, Clare Helen Welsh.
Clare explained the inspiration behind her debut picture book The Aerodynamics of Biscuits. It was really fascinating to hear her publishing journey. We’ve heard from lots of author-illustrators at PBC so it was great to hear from someone who has found success as a writer. Clare also took us through the exciting developments that have followed publication of Biscuits. This included working with publishers Maverick to turn it into a reading scheme which, as a primary school teacher, was close to Clare’s heart. We also heard about how the story has been turned into an interactive family show by Entertainingly Different. Click on the link to see where you could catch the show this summer!
Clare finished by sharing some exciting gossip about what is coming up for her. Our lips are sealed (we are very good at being secret squirrels at PBC!) but we can’t wait!!!
The evening was rounded off with some more chat and, of course, some biscuits! Hopefully some of the enthusiastic attendees this time will make it along to #picturebookclubSW in Bristol. Plus we had such a nice time on our holidays, we are already planning a return visit next summer!
