Amy Wallace

Amy Wallace is an award-winning author who has written several successful books for children and young adults. Wallace studied English and drama at the University of East Anglia, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in 1988. She went on to gain a Diploma in Education from the University of Manchester in 1991 and worked as a teacher for several years. She then gained her MA in Creative Writing from Lancaster University in 2000.

Wallace’s breakthrough novel came with the publication of The Kitchen Cats in 2002. This is an animal fantasy novel which tells the story of a group of cats who come to inhabit an old, abandoned kitchen and its accompanying garden. The cats find themselves enjoying the freedom and safety of their new home and encounter a host of unexpected characters, including a magical mouse and a mischievous ferret. This well-loved novel won the Costa Children’s Book Award and has sold many editions around the world.

Wallace’s other titles include stories of mystery, humor, and the supernatural. The Night Flights is a thrilling tale of three siblings who are sent away to the mysterious Windermann Island, leading to a series of adventures. Meanwhile, The Nine Lives of Montezuma is a humorous fantasy story about a tomcat who has been given the gift of nine mysterious lives. The recent release When the Streets Run Red continues in this vein, as sixteen-year-old May embarks on a mysterious journey filled with magical creatures and danger.

Wallace’s books are known for their vivid detail, creativity, and strong characterization. She is a master of dialogue and setting, which bring her stories to life. Her characters are often quirky and multi-dimensional, often transcending the usual stereotypes. Wallace is also passionate about the natural world, and her books often explore human interaction with nature and the environment.

Wallace’s short stories have been published in various anthologies and magazines, while her children’s fiction has been broadcast on BBC Radio 4. She is also a full-time lecturer in creative writing at the University of Derby, where she often runs workshops and seminars.

Amy Wallace is a writer whose books have delighted generations of children and young adults around the world. Her novels brim with imaginative detail, lovable characters, and thrilling adventures. For readers of all ages, Wallace’s stories offer endless entertainment and inspiration.