Annemarie Allan

I write novels for children and young adults, and short stories for adults. My writing is wide-ranging, including science fiction, fantasy, environmental issues and historical fiction; it is inspired by the people, the history, the legends and the natural landscapes of Scotland. My novels have been shortlisted for a number of literary prizes, with my first novel winning the Kelpies Prize in 2007.

My other work includes historical booklets on my local area, including industry and witchcraft. I also contributed to the historical review of East Lothian 1945-2000, which won first prize in the Alan Ball Local History Award 2010.

I offer readings and workshops for young people, mainly in schools and libraries, but also in other venues such as the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh. I have run creative writing workshops in local libraries and devised materials for the annual summer reading challenge. I also work with adults and young people with learning disabilities. I am happy to offer formal talks, but I am particularly enthused by audience participation.