When did you start writing and why?

I loved writing stories at school and I journalled all through my teens and twenties, but it wasn’t until New Year’s Day 2000 that I finally promised myself I’d write an actual book.

What is your favourite book that you’ve written?

It has to be Mizzy! And I think I love book 2 even more than book!!! For as long as I’ve worked with young people with Down Syndrome, I’ve wanted to give them the chance to be the star of their own stories.

What were you like as a child?

Painfully shy, selectively mute for a bit and very anxious. I was a brilliant daydreamer though.

What superpower would you like to have?

Time travel. I would love to be able to meet my parents and grandparents when they were kids and teens and young adults.

Do you have any pets or what imaginary pet would you have?

I have a little Korean rescue dog called Luna, who is my very devoted assistant. She takes me on lots of walks when I need to think through plots.

Where do you write and what do you use?

I’m lucky enough to have a desk of my own in a corner of the attic, which used to be our son’s Lego room. I can shut myself away and tap away at my laptop and stare out at the ocean when needed (which is a lot).

What happens in your virtual author sessions?

A bit of reading from Mizzy, some thinking about empathy and how it’s sort of like being a “feelings detective” plus some detective themed games and quizzes.

What’s the best thing about being an author?

I get to make stuff up as my job!

What’s your favourite book to read?

Probably To Kill a Mockingbird but closely followed by The Secret Garden.

And finally, what’s your top writing or drawing tip?

Get nosy! Watch people, listen to their conversations and wonder about what’s going on inside their heads.

You can book a virtual author visit with Claire through her website at https://www.clairehatchersmith.com/ and check out her free virtual visit pack!