When did you start writing and why?

I had always, AWAYS wanted to be an author It took a New Year’s resolution to finally get me started in 2011.

What is your favourite book that you’ve written or illustrated?

Hard question – the books are like your children! The Siege of Caerlaverock, a medieval adventure based on a real siege on the Scottish-English border in the year 1300. It was my first book to win a prize, the Young Quills Award.

What were you like as a child?

Chatty and a tad dramatic!

What superpower would you like to have?

Teleporting. I live in the Scottish Highlands, so that would save me a LOT of travel time.

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

I have a 13-year-old scruffy Schnauzer called Merry.

Where do you write and what do you use?

I type (faster than handwriting) and I can work anywhere as long as I have got some time ahead of me: trains, ferries, cafes, the library, at home…

What happens in your virtual author sessions?

Interactive quizzes, costumes and props, as well as telling young people about the inspiration behind my books, dramatic readings and Q&A.

What’s the best thing about being an author?

Meeting young readers. One boy wrote to me to tell me that he had read Wilderness Wars 11 times! That was a good day 😊. I remember loving some books that much when I was young.

What’s your favourite book to read?

Historical adventure – I love anything by Ally Sherrick, Susan Brownrigg, Jane Hardstaff…

And finally, what’s your top writing tip?

A good story is like a party: Arrive late, leave early.

Book a virtual visit from Barbara by visiting her website at https://www.barbarahenderson.co.uk/schools/