Hilary McKay
Hilary McKay was born in Boston, Lincolnshire and is the eldest of four girls. From a very early age she read voraciously and grew up in a household of readers.
After reading Botany and Zoology at St. Andrew's University Hilary then went on to work as a biochemist in an Analysis Department. Hilary enjoyed the work but at the same time had a burning desire to write. After the birth of her two children, Hilary wanted to devote more time to bringing up her children and writing so decided to leave her job.
Hilary now lives in a small village in Derbyshire with her family. When not writing Hilary loves walking, reading, and having friends to stay.
Books
Binny Bewitched
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+
Binny hasn't even decided what wonderful birthday gift she'll buy for her mum before she loses the money. She's sure her twitchy neighbour is a witch, playing havoc with her life. Masterful writing makes this touching story bounce along beautifully.
Binny for Short
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+
Since her father died, Binny's family have struggled. Then old Aunt Violet dies, leaving them her house by the sea.
Caddy's World
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Hodder
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+
This prequel to the award-winning Saffy's Angel focuses on 12-year-old Caddy Casson and her best friends: Alison, who hates everyone, Ruby who is clever and Beth who is perfect, as the girls embark upon the difficult and sometimes confusing business of growing-up. This book provides a perfect introduction to the loveable Casson family and is both moving…
Hilary McKay's Fairy Tales
Author: Hilary McKay Illustrator: Sarah Gibb
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6-8
This gorgeous collection from Hilary McKay will make you see your favourite fairy tales in new and surprising ways; it's a book that you and your children will treasure.
Saffy's Angel
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 9-13
Reading age: 9+
This is an uplifting story about an eccentric family encased in chaos, but also full of intense warmth and loyalty.
The Skylarks' War
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 9-12
Reading age: 9+
Clarry and Peter love spending their summers in Cornwall with their cousin Rupert, but how will things change when he enlists for the First World War? A hugely evocative, powerful and impressive story.
The Swallows’ Flight
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 10-13
Reading age: 10+
Hilary McKay’s ultimately uplifting Second World War story is full of brilliant characterisation, reflecting the experiences of young people on both sides of the war. It’s an immersive and thoughtful read.
The Time of Green Magic
Author: Hilary McKay
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 9-12
Reading age: 9+
Moving house is the last thing Abi needs. She has enough stress with her two annoying stepbrothers. What's more, odd things start to happen in their new home. An unsettling, magical thriller that leaves you unsure where reality ends and the supernatural begins.
Wishing for Tomorrow
Author: Hilary McKay Illustrator: Nick Maland
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 8+
Evocatively illustrated, this is a warm and humorous sequel to Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess.