SOUTHWEST children’s author, Claire Barker, has two magical new books for seven to nine year olds out this October.

Claire will be at Taunton Waterstones signing copies of the latest books in her two series - Picklewitch and Jack and Knitbone Pepper Ghost Dog.

Claire said: “Both series are about funny and unusual friendships - whether you happen to be sensible boy, an naughty little witch or a much beloved ghost pet with a taste for ginger biscuits!”

Claire’s books, written at her home in North Devon, are now available in twelve different languages around the world, and her Knitbone Pepper series is about to be optioned for film.

She added: “One of one of the very best parts of my job is meeting children, parents, grandparents and teachers. I love to chat, catch up and say hello, so I’m hoping that lots of young readers and writers will pop along. This is my first signing event in Waterstones in Taunton and I’m looking forward to it very much. I’m hoping to see lots of pointy hats, spooky sheets and pumpkins.”

Claire was recently invited to open the new school library at Holy Trinity Primary school and her Picklewitch and Jack series has been longlisted for the North Somerset Teacher’s Book Awards in the read aloud category.

Claire will be at Taunton Waterstones this Saturday (October 26) from 11am. To find out more about Claire visit clairebarkerauthor.com