Do authors have to read a lot?

I read about 150 books a year. Why? And how do I have the time for it?

People often ask how I find the time to write and read as much as I do. The truth is, reading is part of the job! I read around 150 books a year – and I make sure the books I pick are varied. One day I’ll be curled up with a magical middle-grade novel, the next, I might be enjoying a gorgeous picture book, and sometimes an adult psychological thriller is sprinkled in, too.

As an author, reading widely matters. Every book teaches me something different, whether it’s how dialogue flows, how atmosphere is built, or how emotion can be shown. Reading across genres keeps my writing fresh and helps me understand what children (and adults, too!) are excited about. I learn just as much from light, joyful stories as I do from darker, more complex ones. Picture books can be very lyrical, thrillers are great at pacing and at building atmosphere.

I’m especially drawn to books that explore themes I write about, like multicultural families, moving abroad, and autism/neurodivergence. But I also love reading about sisters, writing, dark academia settings, ballet and theatre, and, of course, older characters – my granddad is my best friend after all, and I love seeing older people truly seen on the page.)

So if you’re an author – remember that reading will make your writing better!