“It is an honour to lead the MA Writing for Young People and work with so many fantastic writers at the start of their careers, seeing their craft blossom and their stories come to life. When the world seems dark, watching our students support each other to learn, develop and excel is a reminder of all that is best in humanity. Year on year our aspiring authors show that just as there's no limit to the universe, so there's no limit to the realms of imagination.”

“This group's collective dedication is complemented by their distinct individual voices, each one compelling, unique, and brimming with promise. It is with great admiration and confidence that i endorse this remarkable cohort of writers and I look forward to witnessing the indelible mark they will leave on the landscape of children's storytelling.”

“At a time when we are acutely aware of changing trends in publishing, in children's reading and in children's lives, these writers have responded creatively to find ways to tell stories to engage, enrich and empower young people. In this anthology, you'll find stories addressing political polarization, neurodivergence, addiction, class and gender; you'll also find magic, comedy, adventure, crime and history. I hope you enjoy reading these pieces, told in such a variety of creative and accessible formats, as much as I have.”

“It is an honour to introduce you to the brilliant work of the Bath Spa Writing for Young People class of 2024. It has been a privilege to see the students' ink bloom into characters, plots and worlds. In the words of the wonderful Katherine Rundell, "plunge yourself soul-forward" into this glorious anthology and may you find an "unexpected alchemy" on every page. May the ink never run dry. Happy reading!

“Watching these stories take shape has been a privilege - each one a reminder of why I fell in love with storytelling in the first place. These writers have drawn me into hidden abbeys, onto time-travelling subway cars, and through the fractured edges of reality itself. I've planned heists with a determined penguin, faced the weight of loss through a child's eyes, and laughed alongside misfit pirate heroes trying to outrun destiny. I've even found myself lost inside a pea, discovering just how boundless a story can be. Each tale lingers, leaving traces of its world behind.”

“This cohort embraced some serious creative orienteering - facing risks and challenges - with such curiosity, wonder and compassion. While their narrative compass may point in different directions, they share a fixed point - to be writers who care. It's been an honour to travel alongside them and their extraordinary imaginations. They're special, this lot.”