Bryher Mackenzie - Interview (January 2026)
Q: What was your best school visit, and why?
All of them. There’s been dancing, dressing up, and so many hilarious tales that it would be impossible to choose just one.
Q: When engaging with students during school visits, what was the funniest question?
How much money do you make and please can I have some?
Q: You live in Shropshire, what is the best thing about the county?
The hobbits.
Q: What does magic mean to you?
Mystery.
Q: If you were in charge of a school library, which book would you insist is on the shelves, and why?
I’m quite indecisive so picking just one is tricky. I’d go with A Kind Of Spark by Elle McNicoll. It’s one of those books that stay with you long after you’ve left its pages.
Q: Is Great-Aunt Margot based on anyone you know?
Absolutely. Great-Aunt Margot is made up of lots of people I know and love. For example, there’s a fabulous illustration that reminds me of being at my Great-Uncles and dressing up in ‘fancy things.’ Rhiannon was able to capture that moment so brilliantly.
Q: Whales are truly amazing animals, why do you think children find them so interesting?
There’s something about whales, isn’t there? They’re giant, ethereal and totally magic. I like to share whale facts at school visits, especially the one about the tongue of a Blue Whale weighing as much as an adult elephant. I get everyone to stick their tongue out at me and it’s one of my favourite things.
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A comic heist. I’m having so much fun with it. It’s criminal.
Q: You’ve studied at university, what advice would you give to children who struggle with academics or feel school isn’t for them?
Look for the thing or things you’re most curious or passionate about. It’s out there.
Q: Apart from reading and writing, what hobbies do you have?
I like to swim. I like to float on my back