Lucy Baker

Introduce yourself.

My name is Lucy. I live in rural Buckinghamshire, not far from where I grew up with my parents and three younger sisters.

I have had a fun and varied career so far, having studied Criminology at university, going on to work as a television researcher, and then becoming a primary school teacher. I also work as a tutor, children’s sport coach and youth theatre director.  

Can you describe your book Rhino Wants a Wife?

Rhino goes on a journey of discovery through the jungle. He has lots of questions for his friends as he tries to find a companion. 

 I hope people will read my story and find out the rest for themselves!

When did you first discover you wanted to be a writer?

I have always enjoyed writing and have kept all my old notebooks full of stories. As soon as I could write confidently, I wrote captions for my drawings and the story writing developed from there. 

 It has only been since I started teaching that my love of writing has been reignited.  

Tea or coffee?

I’m often told I’m weird because I don’t drink either, except the occasional fruit tea. I’d always rather have a juice.

What is your favourite song?

What a tricky one! I love musicals, but I couldn’t pinpoint a favourite. In general, I like happy and energizing songs. I love 'Shut Up and Dance with Me’ by Walk the Moon.

Do you have a favourite book?

I have lots of childhood favourites, The Water Horse by Dick King-Smith, Allan Ahlberg’s Happy Family series, Malory Towers by Enid Blyton and The Thorn Witch by E.J Taylor. I also love Dan Brown, David Nicholls and my absolute favourite, Wodehouse. My favourite classic is Rebecca.

Is there a book you wish you had written?

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt. It is such a funny book that comes from an unexpected point of view. I have used it in class many times to inspire children to write their own versions.

What are you currently working on?

I have a couple of stories just waiting in the wings. Another picture book and a series of early reader chapter books about a cheeky boy called Milo.

What next for Lucy Baker?

More writing, more teaching, more trips to the zoo. I love the zoo.