Hi! My name’s Jane Bradley, and I’m really excited to be getting involved with Paper Nations. I’ll be posting updates here on the blog, as well as sharing the latest news, opportunities and other exciting developments from Paper Nations HQ over on Facebook and Twitter.
When I’m not spreading the word about Paper Nations, I work with words in other ways – as a writer, editor and workshop facilitator. I’ve loved reading and writing from an early age, and that’s why I believe so sincerely in the Paper Nations project, which will create opportunities for more children and young people to experience the magic of storytelling and creative writing.
My favourite book when I was younger was The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy, which told the story of Mildred Hubble, a clumsy and often-unfortunate student at a magical school, Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches. I loved reading about Mildred and her friends Maud Moonshine and Enid Nightshade, and the trouble they got into during term-time at Miss Cackle’s. Learning that the author had started writing the series while she was still in school only made me even more determined to become a writer myself! Luckily, I always had teachers and family members who encouraged me to write, so I started young and never stopped.
These days, school stories are still a favourite of mine, with highlights including classics like Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers series as well as more contemporary YA novels like Rachel Hawkins’ Hex Hall books. I’m even writing my own novel set in a strange and somewhat sinister school, and was thrilled when it was longlisted for the Lucy Cavendish Prize for Fiction earlier this year.
As my story shows, being encouraged to write from an early age can be a starting point for many, many imaginary and real-life adventures. So I can’t wait to see what adventures unfold as Paper Nations starts inspiring, supporting and championing young creative writers everywhere.
Want to get involved in Paper Nations? Head here to find out how you can help.