An award-winning Workington children’s author is launching a six-week animal-focused writing course for young people.

Pet Time Stories, led by Helen Haraldsen, is aimed at young people aged around 10-15 who have an interest in animals. It runs from 20 April to 25 May 2022.

"I'm known for writing animal stories featuring my own pets and ponies and I love working with young writers to help them write stories about their favourite pet or animal," said Helen, an English teacher at Keswick School and a former school librarian.

Helen's first novel, Little Pearl, was published in 2019 and has become a bestseller. Since, she has made a name for herself with her two series, Amber's Pony Tales, based on her own childhood ponies and experience of equestrian sport through the UK Pony Club, and Daley’s Dog Tales, based on her dogs, Lucy, Petra and Bella.

On the Pet Time Stories course participants will learn how to find a sustainable story idea, create a structured, well-developed plan, start off the story, create impact and pace, understand the time frame and where supporting characters fit in.

Helen said: "Pet ownership increased dramatically during the pandemic. Some young people may have a pet in the household for the first time, experiencing all the joys and adventures that can bring."

The modules will be delivered through Zoom. More details at www.helenharaldsen.co.uk.