Visit to St.Philip Cof E Primary School, Warrington

Thank you to Mrs. Hogan, Miss Cragg and all the children in Y3 at St. Philip for making me so welcome yesterday. We spent a lovely afternoon talking about books and writing. The children had some brilliant ideas for our workshop. They worked on ideas for characters and I am looking forward to seeing their illustrations! Well done Y3.

   

Christmas is Coming!

On Saturday 28th November I will be visiting Waterstones in Altrincham. This is my last book signing before Christmas and I do hope to meet lots of children. The stores become so busy in December  and extra tables are needed to hold all the Christmas stock so there is no room for me! Please come along  and say hello. I will be there from 11am until 3pm. Do remember though, my books are always available at Waterstones.

Book Signing

On Saturday 21st November I will be visiting Waterstones in Golden Square, Warrington. Please call in and say hello!

Forget-me-not Toys and Books

In Culcheth near Warrington you will find this lovely shop dedicated to children. I spent an enjoyable time there yesterday signing my books and chatting to customers. I like to support local businesses and at Forget-me-not you will find a great selection of children's books and toys!

Book Signing in Knutsford

Please call in to Waterstones in Knutsford on Saturday 17th October. I will be there fron 11 am until 3 pm signing my books.

The Baker's Boy Affair

William took down his quill and ink pot from the shelf and opened his notebook.
'New case, new page,' he said, carefully wiping off the surplus ink from the nib, and began on the very top line.
The Case of the Missing Bloomers, he wrote in the style of his hero. It sounded mysterious enough but it wasn't just about the bloomers was it? He crossed it out and began a new line.
The Case of... What was it the case of? It all seemed a bit confusing. He would write down the facts and think of what to call it later.

Book Signings

On Saturday 17th October I will be at Waterstones in Knutsford from 11am until 3pm.

Half Term Week -
Tuesday 27th October -Wilslow Waterstones 11am until 3pm
Wednesday 28th October- Crewe Waterstones 11am until 3pm
Friday 30th October - Manchester Arndale Waterstones 11am until 3pm

On Saturday 7th Novenber I will be at Forget-me-not Toy and Book Shop in Culcheth from 11am until 3pm.
On Saturday 28th November I will be at Waterstones Altrincham from 11am until 3pm.

Find out about my books on my website  dianashaw.co.uk

Book signings

I really enjoyed my visit to Altrincham Waterstones last Saturday.
On Saturday 26th September it is back to Waterstones in Stockport - I haven't been there for some time! Please come along and say hello between 11am and 3pm.

Altrincham

Don't forget - I will be signing my books at Waterstones Altrincham tomorrow, Saturday 19th September.
 I look forward to seeing old friends and new!

                                                Please come along between 11am and 3pm.

Book Signings

I'll be signing my books at Waterstones Altrincham on Saturday 19th September. I will be there from 11am until 3pm.
On Saturday 26th September I will be at Waterstones Stockport from 11am until 3pm.
Please call in and say hello.

Macclesfield

I enjoyed a lovely day at Waterstones in Macclesfield. Thank you to everyone who came along.
Raining today - a good day for writing!

Book Signing

On Saturday 29th August I will be signing my books at Waterstones in Macclesfield. I'll be there from 11am until 3pm so please call in and say hello!

Book Signings

I've really enjoyed my visits to Wilmslow and Warrington. Thank you everyone at Waterstones for making me welcome.
On Saturday 29th August I will be at Waterstones in Macclesfield from 11am until 3pm.

Signing at Waterstones Warrington.

On Thursday 20th August I will be at Waterstones in Golden Square, Warrington from 11am until 3pm.
I look forward to chatting about my books and I'd be very happy to read a story. Please come along.

Signing at Waterstones in Wilmslow

Tomorrow, Saturday 15th August, I will be at Waterstones in Wilmslow from 11am until 3pm. Please come along!

Great Day at Arndale!

I had a lovely day at Waterstones in Manchester Arndale Centre. Thanks to everyone for making me so welcome.
I met one lady who has written a picture book for children and would like to have it published. I hope I was able to offer some useful advice. Lots of children came to talk to me. I like to hear about their writing and the books they enjoy reading. Several who came by told me they are taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge at their local library. It was good to meet so many children keen to read new books. I'm glad that the majority of children I meet love to have an actual book in their hand. Some have Kindles, but to me there is nothing like the feel and the smell of a real book. It is good to know that lots of children are keen to have their own library of books!

 

Book Signing

I will be at Waterstones in the Manchester Arndale Centre tomorrow from 11am until 3pm. Please call in and say hello!

Recent Events

On Thursday I spent a lovely afternoon with Macclesfield Writers Group. I enjoyed talking to them about my experiences as a writer. They all seem very enthusiastic about writing and I hope I was able to pass on some useful information.
On Saturday I spent some time at Waterstones in Altrincham. It is always very rewarding when I arrive and find books waiting to be signed. It means that children have read one of my books and want

to read more! They were unable to make it to see me on Saturday but I was pleased to be able to sign their books. I had an enjoyable day chatting to people. I love it when children talk enthusiastically about reading and their favourite books. It is a bonus if they fancy trying my stories - especially when they come back for more!
Thank you everyone.

Book Signings

On Saturday 25th July I will be at Waterstones in Altrincham from 11 am until 3 pm.Hoping to see lots of friends old and new!

On Saturday 1st August you will find me at Waterstones in the Arndale Centre Manchester so if you are out shopping please pop in between 11am and 3pm to say hello!

Party Gift

Recently, I was asked to sign copies of my books as 'going home gifts' for children who attended a birthday party. The mum wanted to give something different from the usual sweets and small toys. (We negotiated a very reasonable price for the books). If anyone is interested  in doing something similar please let me know.

Society of Authors - Authors North Summer Social

On Thursday 2nd July I met with a group of authors in Chester for the Authors North Summer Social.
After an enjoyable cruise on the River Dee

we strolled to the Town Hall, pausing to listen to the town crier at the Cross.

At the Town Hall we enjoyed afternoon tea in the Council Chamber followed by a very informative round table discussion  led by Kate Pool, Deputy Chief Executive and Bryony Hall, contracts advisor.

At 3pm, local literature professionals from across the north west joined us for a networking drinks reception. I met lots of new friends and found it a most enjoyable day.                                                                        

Society of Authors

1st. July -
I am looking forward to the Authors North Summer Social tomorrow.
We meet in Chester for a river cruise and walkabout followed by afternoon tea in Chester Town Hall.
At 3pm there is a networking drinks reception with local literature professionals from across the north west of England.
It promises to be an enjoyable day!

Knutsford Waterstones

Thank you to my friends at Knutsford for making me so welcome on Saturday. It was a busy morning and I had lots of lovely chats with people. Thank you to the customer who told one of the booksellers how much she liked my books - it is great to hear some feedback!
Next signing - Altrincham Waterstones on  Saturday 25th.

More Book Signings

Saturday 25th July Waterstones Altrincham 11am until 3pm
Saturday 4th August Waterstones Manchester Arndale 11am until 3pm
Saturday 15th August Waterstones Wilmslow 11am until 3pm
It would be lovely to meet friends old and new!

Book Signing

Back home from a lovely, relaxing holiday in Cornwall, I'm full of enthusiasm to get on with my writing!
I've arranged some visits to Waterstones shops too.
On Saturday 27th June I'll be at Waterstones in Knutsford from 11am until 3pm.

Half Term Book Signings

It's half term and I will be visiting three book shops this week.
On Wednesday 27th I will be at Waterstones in Golden Square Warrington, on Friday 29th you'll find me at Watersones in the Arndale Manchester and on Saturday 30th I'll be at Waterstones in Altrincham. I'll be in each shop from 11am until 3pm.

Wilmslow

I really enjoyed my day at Waterstones in Wilmslow. I chatted to lots of lovely people. I do hope the children enjoy the books I signed.

Book Signing

On Saturday 23rd May I will be at Waterstones in Wilmslow from 11am until 3pm.
Please call in and say hello!

School Visit

On Friday 1st. May I visited Urmston Junior School.
I'd received a letter from a boy who'd read 'Watchman William, Balloon Trouble.' The teacher had asked the children to write to someone who had inspired them and I was proud to be chosen as a recipient!
I spent the afternoon with two year five classes. I told them about my books and answered their questions then we planned some writing together. The children are inventing characters. They had some really good ideas and I would love to read the finished pieces.

Thank you Mr.Greenwood, Mr.Parker and all the children in year five for making me so welcome!

What's Your Story Chorley?

This is a great festival of words! If you are in the area please come along. There are lots of events being held all over town.

You will find me in Chorley Junior Library at 1pm. I will be talking about my books, reading and answering questions.

Events

On Friday 17th I will be at Waterstones in the Arndale Centre , Manchester, from 11am until 3pm.
On Saturday 18th you will find me at Waterstones in Knutsford 11am until 3pm.
Please call in and say hello!

Right on cue, William made his grand entrance. Everyone stopped to stare as he walked slowly across the foyer. The dress fitted well and he'd just about mastered the art of walking in high heels...        

Book Signing

On Friday 17th April I will be at Manchester Arndale Waterstones from 11am until 3pm. Please come along.

Altrincham

I had a lovely day at Waterstones in Altrincham. Whenever I'm there I always meet lots of interesting people to chat to. It is great to see so many families enjoying the book shop together!  As hoped, I made new friends and it was lovely to see old friends too. Thank you for coming.

The shop owner, Fred Wormly, lived alone in a little flat above. He was a man of few words; customers would usually find him hidden behind a shelf with his long, pointed nose in a book.
'A real book wormly!' William had laughed when he first heard his name...
Wathcman William, Balloon Trouble - The Case of the Secret Message 

Book Signing

I hope to meet old friends and new at my book signing on Saturday.
Please call in at Waterstones, Altrincham,

on Saturday 4th April.
 I will be there from 11am until 3pm.

New Event Dates

Saturday 4th April - book signing at Altrincham Waterstones, 11am until 3pm.
Thursday 9th April - book signing at Wilmslow Waterstones, 11am until 3pm.
Friday 17th April - book signing at Manchester Arndale Waterstones, 11am until 3pm.
Saturday 18th April - book signing at Knutsford Waterstones, 11am until 3pm.
Looking forward to meeting friends old and new!

Book Signing

A Lovely Review from a William Fan!

Book Review by                            Anya

Title:                'Watchman William, Ghost Detective'

Author:           Diana Shaw

Illustrator:     Mike Phillips

Publisher:       Inside Pocket Publishing Ltd.

This fabulous book is mainly about two characters, Watchman William who is a ghost from the Tudor Period and a young boy namedThomas.
The story is set in and around Hardleigh Manor where strange and mysterious things are happening. Watchman William and Thomas set about solving all the crimes.
My favourite crime they had to solve was about the ghost who caused endless problems at Hardleigh Hotel. I enjoyed it as Watchman William dressed up as a lady called Mrs.Tudor -

 but he still had his beard!

The story kept me interested all the way through as I liked reading about all the clues and how he used these to solve the crimes.

I would strongly recommend this book as it is amusing, easy to read and it is written in an interesting way with all the clues he writes down.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

I give this book   five stars     

                             

Children's Market - Nantwich Civic Hall

On Saturday 14th March I will be at Nantwich Civic  Hall from 10am until noon. There is a children's fair taking place and I will be signing my books.

School Visits

During the week of World Book Day, I visited two primary schools.
At Birchwood Primary I talked to the children in KS2  about my books and the children asked lots of questions. Afterwards, Y3/4 joined in a writing workshop.
At Gilded Hollins Primary I spent my time with Y4. I talked about the books and answered the children's questions before introducing a writing workshop. The children worked in small groups and presented their ideas to the rest of the class.
I enjoyed both visits and I was very impressed by the children's enthusiasm for reading and writing!

Horace was shipwrecked on the rocks below Cockleshore Castle

World Book Day!

Happy World Book Day everyone! Today I will be visiting Birchwood C of E Primary School near Warrington. Tomorrow, I'm off to Gilded Hollins Community Primary School, Leigh. I look forward to meeting all the children!

Watchman William, Balloon Trouble!

The Mystery of the Hidden Paintings

'The Lake,' he said aloud, as he reached up to lift down the painting. He held it in trembling hands and gazed at the mirror of water reflecting the giant willow trees at its edge. So still, like a sheet of glass... 'Aghh! What's happening?' The mirror cracked into a thousand pieces as ripples broke the surface of the water.The ripples grew into waves then, right in the middle, the water began to swirl round and round, faster and faster.       'Whooo! Whooo! A ghostly face with a spooky smile appeared in the whirlpool and leered at him from the dark swirling depths...

Watchman William, Balloon Trouble!

'We do have a wonderful view,' agreed William, 'and I'm beginning to think that riding up here could be great fun,, but we need to get back and I have absolutely no idea how to control this thing!'

Latest events

I enjoyed my day at Macclesfield Waterstones. Lots of children stopped by for a chat!

Thursday 5th March is World Book Day and there is lots going on all week! I am hoping to visit two schools. More about my visits soon.

Book Signing at Macclesfield Waterstones

On Friday 20th February I will be signing my books at Waterstones in Macclesfield from 11am until 3pm. Please call in and say hello.

Visit to Warrington Waterstones

I enjoyed my visit to Warrington Waterstones yesterday. It was great to see old friends ant to make some new ones! Thank you Charlotte and Oliver for the lovely photograph!

Half Term Events

On Saturday 14th February I will be at Waterstones in Manchester Arndale Centre.
On Tuesday 17th February you will find me at Waterstones in Golden Square, Warrington.
If you can't make either of those, why not call in at Macclesfield Waterstones on Friday 20th?
All times 11am until 3pm. Looking forward to seeing you!

 

Lovely Day at Altrincham

I had a very enjoyable day signing my books at Waterstones in Altrincham. Lots of people came along for a chat and by the end of the event I had only one book left!
How lovely to see several people from Y6 classes I taught (some many years ago!) at Park Road School Sale. I

so enjoyed seeing them again and meeting some of their children too. Thank you to everyone for coming.
My next signing will be at Waterstones in the Arndale Centre Manchester on Saturday 14th February from 11am until 3pm.

Altrincham Book Signing

On Saturday 31st January, I will be signing my books at Waterstones in Altrincham from 11am until 3pm. Please call in and say hello.

Enjoyable Day

I had a lovely time at Waterstones in Knutsford yesterday. It was good to meet lots of children and talk about books and writing. Had an interesting chat about how to write a story in 500 words - it's tricky!

William and Thomas are at it again - solving crimes, uncovering mysteries and munching their way through a seemingly endless supply of Ginger Nuts!

What is the true meaning of the secret message?
Who has stashed a locked trunk in the shed at the old house?
And what's inside?
Who is stealing pedigree dogs?
How will William and Thomas survive their adventure in a runaway balloon?

Can you help William and Thomas with their crazy enquiries?

Book Event

On Saturday 31st January I will be at Warerstones in Altrincham from 11am until 3pm. I'll be reading stories, chatting about my books and signing copies. I look forward to seeing you there!

Book Event

On Saturday 24th. January I will be at Waterstones in Knutsford from 11am until 3pm. I look forward to chatting to people, reading stories and signing copies of my books for those who would like them. Please call in and say hello!