Sing Like a Whale

I have been writing for many years in a number of different genres, from books for babies up to books for 11 year-olds plus. I like to try new things and tackle new subjects, so I don't limit myself to one type of book. One month I might be writing about history, and the next month I might be creating an imaginary story. Examples of my work have been selected for national Key Stage study in the UK, and in the USA I was commended by the Library of Congress for my work in non-fiction, which they felt encouraged reluctant readers. I work with visuals always in mind, and love the challenge of getting across information or an exciting story with good graphics to back it up. Lately I have been blogging about the craft of writing, and I've also appeared at National Book Festivals, which I think of as the most challenging thing of all to do! I get a lot of emails from children around the world, inspired by one of my books they have read, and that gives me great pleasure. Gwen Millward was brought up and went to school in Wales, UK, after which she moved to Edinburgh to study art where she graduated with a First in illustration and was awarded the Helen A. Rose Bequest for art. Gwen's first picture book, Guess What I Found In Dragon Wood (text by Tim Knapman), was published by Puffin, as was The Bog Baby by Jeanne Willis, and a collaboration with Jenny Nimmo, The Beasties, by Egmont. She has since published many more, including two about Bear and Bird which she has written herself. Most recently, Gwen has illustrated Stories from Bug Garden (Candlewick), happily and neatly combining her love of art and insects. She now lives in Bristol with her son.

Get ready to make noises! • Sing like a whale saying Calling all whales! • Hoot like an owl saying This is MY tree! • Roar like a lion saying I'm the strongest! • Howl like a wolf saying I'm in the team! • Chatter like a kookaburra saying I rule here! • Peep, peep like a chick saying Mum, I hatched! • Whoop like a gibbon saying Follow me! • Purr like a cat saying I feel happy! • Whinny like a horse saying Hello friend! • Hiss like a snake saying Stay away from me! • Bleat like a goat saying Where's my food? • Squeak like a mouse saying Let's explore! • Now it's time to make your sound.