5 questions for Gillian Cross

August 30th 2017

We recently caught up with renowned UK children's author, Gillian Cross, to discuss not only the re-release of The Demon Headmaster but also a range of topics, from super powers to writing inspiration. 

1. With the re-release of The Demon Headmaster this month, can you tell us what inspired you to write about the hypnotic Headmaster?

When she was about ten, one of my daughters asked me to write a story about a wicked headmaster.  I said I would - but, when I sat down to start writing, I realised I had a problem.  How could a Head get away with being wicked?  Why wouldn't the children just go home and tell their families? 

I can't write this story, I thought.  Unless I can think of a way for the Headmaster to send the children home at the end of the day saying: 'I think the Headmaster is a marvellous man and this is the best school I've ever been to.'

Suddenly, I saw what the answer was.  The Headmaster had to hypnotize all the children!  And from that moment on, I couldn't wait to write the book!

2. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I've always wished I could fly.  It would be brilliant to be able to swoop over the hills and fly alongside swans.  And I love rain, so it would be brilliant to be completely surrounded by it - and zoom through a rainbow!

3. Over the years you’ve written many brilliant books; which is your favourite, or the one you’re most proud of?

That's a very difficult question, because I've loved writing them all.  I think I'm proudest of Wolf, which won the Carnegie Medal.  But my favourite has to be either The Tree House or After Tomorrow.  They're so different from each other that I can't really choose between them.

4. Where do you like to do your writing?

I usually write in my office, which is a converted garage (much more comfortable than that sounds!) with a piano at one end and lots of overflowing bookshelves.

5. What is your favourite book, and what are you reading at the moment?

I haven't got an absolutely favourite book, but one of the books I've loved most, all my life, is The Secret Garden.  It seems better ever time I read it.  And I've just finished reading Cressida Cowell's wonderful new story The Wizards of Once.  (I was lucky enough to get a copy before publication day!)  Next on my list is Where the World Ends by Geraldine McCaughrean.  I can't wait to start it.

Want to introduce your readers to the ever terrifying Demon Headmaster? Grab your copy here today.