The Witch of Turlingham Academy

Leila Rasheed (also writes under Ellie Boswell)

Leila Rasheed is a British-Asian writer of mixed heritage who grew up in Libya. She has always loved children’s literature: its powerful themes, linguistic magic and power to change the world. Her favourite place to be is probably between ages nine to thirteen, but it all depends on the story. Some of her published books are funny and contemporary, but she loves writing historical and fantasy too. Many of her stories are in some way about a search for identity.

She enjoys exploring new forms and genres. Leila’s other role is supporting emerging writers. After graduating from the University of Warwick’s MA in writing, she returned to design and teach a module in writing for children and young people. She created the Megaphone writer development scheme, which supports black, Asian and minority ethnic children’s and young adult writers as they write their first novel. Leila is based in south Birmingham.