Maureen Urquhart lives in Blairgowrie and volunteers her time and talents for Mary’s Meals. When she advertised her “Made with Love” service I contacted Maureen to commission her to make book bags especially for my Corrie’s Capers book series.

I am an indie author but engage the services of a professional illustrator, editor, typographer and have a team of people who help me make my picture books as good as they can be. I have entered my books in the Barbara Hammond Trophy, a competition hosted by SAW, for the last 3 years to receive unbiased, honest feedback from independent adjudicators. Although I’m always somewhat apprehensive, I know my writing can’t improve without this level of critique.

This competition is for all genres of books which have been self published and is judged on several elements from writing style, characterisation, the story, setting, overall impression, formatting, covers, editing, interior formatting to marketing. There is always a large entry and I was absolutely thrilled to hear ‘Corrie’s Curling Capers’ was “commended” in 2021.

“A lot of action and interest packed into such a small book. Gently educational and enjoyable for adult and child”

“Vivid, varied and enjoyable”

“A keeper!” says the adjudicator, well that’s good enough for me :-)))))

I have the luxury of writing for pleasure and am truly delighted when people buy my books. The great news is that all the proceeds from Corrie’s Capers book sales help to feed and educate children living in desperate circumstances. Whether people buy my books because they want to support me, like West Highland Terriers, the Scottish theme or wish to donate to Mary’s Meals doesn’t matter, I am just really grateful for every sale.

Thank you!

(The Westie Fest was “highly commended” in the 2019 competition so the Corrie’s Capers series has done well.)

Over 40 entries were received from all over Scotland and as far south as Hull. Our judge, Mrs Jean Bowden, pored over the drawings and paintings and decided on our winners.

Meredith (Age 5) from Lamlash with her drawing of Corrie at Sannox Beach

Lucia from Bridge of Allan with her drawing of Corrie at Edinburgh Castle.

Kirsty Palmer with her picture of Corrie overlooking Holy Isle

We had 2 Highly Commended Entries

Corrie visiting North Berwick and Corrie at Glen Rosa

Alison also awarded two “well done” prizes

Book review from Scottish Field in their December 2019 magazine.