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Malorie Blackman

Malorie talks about sensitive storylines, her journey to publication, beating writer's block and more

About The Author:

Malorie Blackman was the Children’s Laureate between 2013-2015, and has written over seventy books. She is acknowledged as one of today's most imaginative and convincing writers for young readers, and has been awarded numerous prizes for her work, including the Red House Children's Book Award and the Fantastic Fiction Award. Malorie has also been shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, and in 2005 she was honoured with the Eleanor Farjeon Award in recognition of her contribution to children's books. In 2008 she received an OBE for her services to children's literature, and in 2013 she topped the Powerlist, a list of the UK's most influential black figures. She has been described by The Times as 'a national treasure'. Many of Malorie’s books have been adapted for stage and television, including a BAFTA-award-winning BBC production of Pig-Heart Boy and a Pilot Theatre adaptation of Noughts & Crosses. There is also a major BBC production of Noughts & Crosses which aired to critical acclaim in 2020 which has been renewed for a second series.

 

About The Book:

Sephy is a Cross: dark-skinned and beautiful, she lives a life of privilege and power. But she's lonely, and burns with injustice at the world she sees around her. Callum is a nought: pale-skinned and poor, he's considered to be less than nothing - a blanker, there to serve Crosses - but he dreams of a better life. They've been friends since they were children, and they both know that's as far as it can ever go. Noughts and Crosses are fated to be bitter enemies - love is out of the question. Then - in spite of a world that is fiercely against them - these star-crossed lovers choose each other. But this is love story that will lead both of them into terrible danger . . . and which will have shocking repercussions for generations to come. Voted as one of the UK's best-loved books, Malorie Blackman's Noughts & Crosses is a seminal piece of YA fiction; a true modern classic.

 

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An Introduction to 'Noughts & Crosses'

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The inspiration behind 'Noughts & Crosses'

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A reading from 'Noughts & Crosses'

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Malorie's Writing Challenge

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What can you tell us about Sephy and Callum?

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Do you have any tips for beating writer's block?

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Was it important to you for the stories to move at a fast pace?

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Do you have any advice when it comes to tackling sensitive themes?

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What advice do you have when it comes to writing romantic storylines?

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Can you tell us about your journey to publication?

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Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

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Resource Download: 'Noughts & Crosses' Extract