Books – Anita Belli Books

So Many Sequels, So Little Time!

The themes and ideas for my books come from a number of experiences in my life, be it place, theme or character.

The Big Ship Sailed

This is a playground song from my childhood and it came to mind this week as we approach the end of September. I remember a life changing event on the last day of September a decade ago.

It is the end of the school year and my work as Author in the Classroom has ended until September. So, back to the day job of being an Author and guess what I am writing about? Quite by coincidence, my next publication will be a Non-Fiction book for writers called: How to be an Author in the Classroom

Falling in Love with the Adventures of Mole

I have spent almost every day, so far this year developing A Month of Writing Adventure for children. It is a combination of a teaching guide and creative notebook which I am sure will excite even the most reluctant writer.

Hold The Fronted Adverbials

The fear of getting it wrong is prevalent amongst children in many of the schools I work in. It stifles creativity, curiosity and engagement. And disengaged children don’t learn very much at all.

The Truth in Fiction

Memory, truth and lies has become an important theme again in my work, since I developed my workshop programme – Write Your Life. I write pieces of my life in every novel I create. I write FROM my life – from under the skin of my experiences.

Writing Firsts for 2021

My notebook habit is strong and evolved. I have drawers full of notebooks dating back several decades. When I am seeking inspiration, or if there is nothing to watch on telly, I will occasionally browse these notebooks and find nuggets of inspiration.

My 2020 Writing Life

Some may say that 2020 has been rubbish and in some ways it has. I have been able to explore new skills and new audiences for my work.

The Magic of a Blue Moon

There will be a full moon at Halloween this year, and every full moon at Halloween has to be a Blue Moon. Why? Because moon cycles are 29.5 days long and Halloween is always on October 31st. So, it has to be the second full moon of the month. Blue Moons happen every 30 monthsContinue reading “The Magic of a Blue Moon”

Words are a powerful form of magic

I have been thinking a lot about Magic recently, probably because I am working with children and they believe in the magic of stories. By accessing their imagination, and what I call their story brains, they come up with stories which are bold, inspiring and joyful. It has refreshed my belief in storytelling; in the magicContinue reading “Words are a powerful form of magic”