I know – it doesn’t look that special, does it? But this is the British Library, aka my spiritual home in London. I spent 6 joyous months there researching my PhD thesis and even now, when I walk through the doors, I smile grin like a lunatic. That may sound a bit deranged, but come on – where else might you pass an antique printing press on your way to the loo? So this was my first stop when I got off the train at Euston. I didn’t have anything to look up this time, but went in anyway to pay my respects. (And if you’re looking for a clever gift for a bookish person, you could do a lot worse than adopting one of their books.)
I met my editor, Mara Bergman of Walker Books, for lunch. Her office is on the South Bank in a converted Victorian factory.
We had a lovely lunch with Katie, a cover designer, and Emily, Mara’s editorial assistant. Mara is a wonderful editor and she’s also an award-winning picture-book author! She very generously gave me her latest book, Oliver Who Travelled Far and Wide, and it’s already become my son’s new favourite book.
After lunch I met Patrick Insole, who designed the gorgeous covers for Spy and Body. I really, really, really love Patrick’s work but that didn’t stop me from coercing him into taking a picture. I’m told he detests photos. Soz, P.
After meeting several other Walkerites, all of whom were absolutely lovely and passionate about books (hello Jane and Emma and Sean!), I wandered across to the Albert Embankment, where the weather finally matched my mood.
The following day I met my agent, Rowan Lawton, for breakfast. I adore talking with Rowan – she never fails to be inspiring and energizing. We talked about the next book, and the next, and then about some wacky ideas I was kicking around. It was brilliant.
I spent the rest of my time wandering around Bloomsbury, researching the setting for my next novel. If there’s a happier job in the world, I have yet to hear of it.
And now, book news: the blog tour for The Agency 2: The Body at the Tower starts on August 2 at the Story Siren! My theme this time is Notorious Victorians – oh, yes.
Steph Burgis says
Ooh, the British Library is one of my favorite places in the world! I too did PhD research there and floated on air the whole time I was there – I’ve still got my old BL card even though it’s long since expired.
Colleen says
I also adore the BL, although I didn’t do research there. I simply squee’d and gasped like a starstruck fan looking at the illuminated books display, which included a complete Chaucer from the early 1400s. *Swoons*
Becky Earl says
The British Library was the first place i ever visited in London. My friend kep t laughing at me because i walked round going ‘oooh’, ‘wow’, ‘aww’ etc. it is a truly magical place. want to go back someday.
shame you didn’t have time for the eye. it is a must! love your photo of the bridge in London, it’s a great photo. 😀
Ying says
I love a good BL-squee. So glad you all share my excitement!