Booked Up is a national programme run by Booktrust and supported by the Department for Children, Schools and Families to enable each child in participating schools to choose a free book. The 12 titles are selected by a Booktrust panel of reviewers. In 2007, over 630,000 books were given out.

“I think this scheme will boost all children's reading for pleasure and really help bridge the Year 6 to 7 gap for children, as they make that difficult move to a new secondary school."
Michael Rosen, Children's Laureate

Malcolm Rose writes: As soon as I heard about participating in Booked Up, three thoughts hit me.  It’s fantastic that Kiss of Death will play its part in encouraging reading.  It also means that more young people will celebrate the people of Eyam and their battle against plague.  Also, as a writer, I need the occasional pat on the back and reassurance that I’m producing something that readers enjoy.  Being selected for Booked Up gives me an injection of confidence so I'll work on my next project with renewed vigour.

When did you start writing, and where does your inspiration come from? I used to be told off at school for daydreaming.  Now, as a fiction writer, I make my living from it!  While studying chemistry at university, I started writing stories because it allowed me to be anyone, go anywhere and do anything.  In my imagination, I am a great musician, the best footballer, a devious murderer, the world’s leading detective, and many other characters.

I write only about topics that make me passionate.  That might be because I really like or loathe them.  I am inspired by things I like (science, nature, music, football, etc), and angered by things I dislike (the corrupting effect of money and politics, racism, bullies, cruelty, etc).  I often get ideas by looking through newspapers and science magazines; there’s a weird and wonderful – and sometimes horrible – world out there with plenty of inspiration for a writer.

• See more questions we asked Malcolm Rose

• Read Malcolm Rose's writing tips on his website

• Read an extract and find out more about Kiss of Death

More books by Malcolm Rose

 

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