"Watch out for steam vultures!"

The Magic Dump books are light-hearted novels for kids, with a special blend of fantasy, science fiction and a hint of steampunk. For ages 9-12.

Here are some questions I often get asked, plus one or two I just made up.

Why do you write books when you could be watching Netflix?

I love creative work, especially making up characters and funny situations. There's nothing more satisfying than conjuring something out of nothing.

I've heard your wife does the pictures. Is this true?

Yes, it's true! I am married to Maggie who does the artwork for my books. It's funny, really. Out of all the illustrators in the world, my publishing company paired me up with my own wife! They obviously have excellent taste in illustrators.

Do you run your own publishing company?

Yes.

Is writing a book really, really easy? If so, how soon can I write my own?

Writing a book is great fun, but it's also hard work. Luckily for me, it's the sort of work I love to do. If you're like me and you enjoy the challenge of creating a story, go for it! I look forward to seeing your book on the shelves one day. 

Do you ever get writer's block?

Like any creative process, some days the ideas just flow, and some days you sit there wondering what all those extra buttons on your washing machine are for.  I don't seem to get serious writer's block, though, for which I am very thankful. Over the years I've learned a few tricks to keep the creative juices flowing, which I share in my newsletter. (See below if you'd like to subscribe.)

What languages do you speak?

When I'm out and about, I speak English, and when I'm at home, I speak English. I can also say hello and count to five in several other languages including French, Spanish (thanks, Dora!) and Māori. I really wish I'd learned to speak another language properly. I suppose I still could... Maybe I'll look into that when I've finished writing this paragraph.

So did you start learning another language?

Not yet, no. Still thinking about it, though...