Penny Joelson is one of the UK’s leading YA (Young Adult) writers, with a string of popular and thrillingly plotted novels to her name, including I Have No Secrets and Things The Eye Can’t See.

On Wednesday 23 February we were delighted to welcome Penny back to Queenswood to speak to Year 7 and 8 English students in the Clarissa Farr Theatre.

She gave fascinating insights into her life-long passion for reading and writing, and told the story of the night when, aged 11, she found herself locked in the public library.

As well as revealing some of the inspirations for her compelling storylines, she also offered us a glimpse of the day-to-day life of a working writer.

Best of all, she read exclusive extracts from her latest manuscripts, and asked the audience for their feedback.

After the talk, there was an opportunity to buy copies of Penny’s novels. Judging by the queues, and the number of bookworms who spent break and lunchtime engrossed in their books, she has definitely made plenty of new fans!

Lovely visit to speak to Yr 7 and 8 at Queenswood School today! Great questions from students and thanks to wonderful school librarian Jayne Truran @readingj for inviting me! pic.twitter.com/W2HOerBqQi

— Penny Joelson (@pennyjoelson) February 23, 2022