Gourlay announced as BookTrust’s writer in residence

Candy Gourlay will explore how books can be both mirrors and windows to the world in her new role as BookTrust’s writer in residence.

The Philippines-born and London-based author, who was shortlisted last year’s Costa Children’s Book Prize with Bone Talk (David Fickling Books), said: “Growing up in the Philippines in uncertain times made me think I would probably never get a chance to see the world. But books proved me wrong. Between the covers of books, I travelled all over the world, met the most extraordinary characters and learned that there were more ways to live than I knew. Someone said books are windows and mirrors. Windows because they allow you to look beyond your own experience. Mirrors because they reflect the universality of humanity. As BookTrust's writer in residence, I hope everyone will join in exploring this theme.”

During the six-month residency Gourlay will also organise a creative writing competition for primary schools and a book event for Filipino children in London.

BookTrust c.e.o. Diana Gerald said: “In a time where supporting author diversity is critical, we are incredibly lucky and excited to have an author with such personal lessons and stories to share. Candy is not only a brilliant author but also an important role model to inspire children to both read and write.”

The BookTrust Writer in Residence project has been running since March 2009 and previous holders of the post include Nadia Shireen, Cressida Cowell, Polly Dunbar, Matt Haig, Philip Ardagh and Phil Earle.