Annabel M. Yates

Annabel is a PhD student of Creative Writing at Kingston University. She first began studying Creative Writing when she undertook her BA(Hons) in English Literature and Creative Writing, going on to complete an MA in Creative Writing, both at Kingston University. She is currently researching feminist theory and has written her first novel, aimed at young teenagers focusing on feminist themes through the lens of speculative fiction

Despite learning difficulties, including dyslexia, she has always loved for stories and often rereads the novels she grew up loving as a child, such as Jacqueline Wilson and Louise Arnold. The first chapter book she remembers borrowing from the library to read independently was Vicky Angel by Jacqueline Wilson, which she read under the table at a family vow renewal! She enjoys authors who write about young girls who are diverse and realistic, no matter the genre. She especially enjoys authors who write for all age groups, so that readers can grow up with the authors they love. One of her current favourite authors is Holly Bourne, whose recent YA novel, You Could Be So Pretty, has informed and been included in her thesis research. Another favourite is Sara Barnard, who she recently had the pleasure of interviewing at a community book event.