Francesca Simon
Author of over 60 books for children, most famously known for the Horrid Henry series. In 2023 she was appointed MBE and continues to advocate for literacy and storytelling across generations.
Best podcasts with Francesca Simon
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17 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 1h 19min
#154: Francesca Simon — From 40+ Rejections to Bestselling Children’s Author (25M+ Book Sales), Moving from Children’s Books to Opera & Myth, and Reinventing Herself at Every Stage
Francesca Simon, the acclaimed author of over 60 books for children, especially the popular Horrid Henry series, shares her creative journey. She discusses overcoming early rejections and her evolution from children's literature to crafting operas. Francesca reveals insights into writing myth-based novels and the challenges of adapting narratives for the stage. Her reflections on the writing process emphasize the importance of character motivation and cultivating a supportive workspace, all while advocating for literacy and storytelling across generations.
Mar 26, 2025 • 32min
The Book Club: Francesca Simon
Francesca Simon, renowned for her Horrid Henry series, dives into her first adult novel, Salka: Lady of the Lake, reinterpreting Welsh folklore. She shares insights on transforming musical narratives into rich literary experiences, exploring themes of love, identity, and otherness. The conversation unveils the emotional complexities of relationships, grief, and societal expectations within her characters. Simon highlights the collaboration between writers and composers, showcasing the evolution of storytelling from prose to performance and the personal inspirations behind her work.
