New BookTrust Writer in Residence, Cerrie Burnell, to share the magic of storytelling

Published on: 09 September 2019

Cerrie Burnell, best known for her work on CBeebies and author of Harper and the Sea of Secrets and The Girl With the Shark’s Teeth, among many other books, has been appointed our new online Writer in Residence.

Author Cerrie Burnell will take over from Candy Gourlay as the new BookTrust Writer in Residence for the next six months.

During her six-month residency, Cerrie will share the story of her struggle growing up with dyslexia and how her mum encouraged her passion for the magic of reading.

She'll also share her joy for storytelling and run a competition for primary school aged children, as well as appearing at events during her residency.

Keys to unlock a love of books

Cerrie Burnell says about her residency at BookTrust:

'Through overcoming my own difficulties with dyslexia, I’ve learnt that every child should have access to a wealth and wonderment of stories, regardless of whether they can read them. With the help of people around you – in my instance, mum – all children can become enchanted by stories. I’m so excited to find out how books have been championed throughout the world and how children from every culture have found keys to unlock a love of literature.

'I am also beyond delighted to be working with BookTrust. They are a fabulous organisation who have reading and storytelling at their heart, which resonates with me so acutely.'

Diana Gerald, BookTrust CEO said: 

'We are so lucky to have the incredibly talented Cerrie Burnell as the next BookTrust Writer in Residence. This online project gives visitors to BookTrust’s website an exclusive insight into the minds of acclaimed writers and illustrators.

'Cerrie’s story is also a very important one to tell. Reading does not come as naturally to some children as it does to others and by being persistent and inviting your kids into the world of literature, you really can inspire them and change their lives forever.'