Age 9 was when reading became something more than just learning for me. It became a gateway to other worlds. The books I devoured at that age and up to my teenage years have been some of the most influential in my life - The Hobbit, Little Women, The Stainless Steel Rat series, Asimov (my mum had a very healthy sci-fi paperpack shelf) and more. 

In 2024 I had an idea for a novel for children in that precious 9-11 age bracket, where reading for pleasure comes into its own and can influence a lifetime of enjoyment. Of course, it's a sci-fi fantasy adventure, influenced by those rollicking Harry Harrison paperbacks in my my mum's collection, and in turn by her passion for both fun and intelligent science fiction.

I started writing my novel in 2024, and I hope that 2025 is the year I complete it. I'd love it if you joined me on the journey! 

- SE Holland