It wasn’t the first book I read, but 'Momo' by Michael Ende was probably the one that left the deepest mark on me. I remember reading it under the covers with a torch, long after I was supposed to be asleep. Beneath all its magic, it is really a story about time, listening and the importance of caring for one another — ideas that have stayed with me ever since.

'Autobiography of a Yogi' by Paramahansa Yogananda. I write biographies myself, so I’m always drawn to books that make another person’s life feel a little closer to our own. I’m also fascinated by all the different ways a life can be told — through big events, but also through memories, small moments and the stories we carry with us. This one is full of magic, little miracles and a constant search for something beyond what we can see.

Everywhere. Books, films, exhibitions, travelling, conversations, people I meet… and especially children. I write for them, and their imaginations have absolutely no respect for borders, logic or what is supposed to be possible. I think stories are a little like that too; they can travel almost anywhere.

Looking after the things you already have. I like the idea that objects can have long lives and gather stories along the way, rather than being constantly replaced. It’s better for the planet, and somehow makes the things around you feel more meaningful too.

Stay curious about people whose lives look very different from yours. Listen to their stories before deciding what you think you know about them. And don’t worry too much about having a perfect plan. Sometimes the paths you never expected are the ones that teach you the most.