1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
A1. I’m Gill McCabe, a proud Scouser. After a legal career, I followed my heart into schools, volunteering to promote literacy and later working in Special Educational Needs. I’m passionate about making reading irresistible—joyful, engaging and genuinely humorous — so every child feels, “this book is for me.” My first book The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway is the latest step on that journey.
2. What is the inspiration behind your book “The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway”?
A2. I wanted to write a positive book that is heart-warming with a focus on friendship, resilience and loyalty (we all could do with a bit of that.)
3. When did you realize you want to be an author?
A3. I have always had it on my very long to-do list, so in March 2025 I literally put pen to paper (the old-fashioned way.)
4. Please tell us something about your book “The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway”
A4. What begins as a royal escape from danger becomes a journey about belonging, kindness, and courage — and above all, finding the place where you are truly loved, not just looked after. Along the way we meet a busy doctor, sneaky cats, World Book Day bullies, a football legend, and of course a shoebox that nearly became a mouse mansion.
The book shows children that even tiny characters can have giant stories — and sometimes friendship turns up in the most unexpected places… like an old ink well at the back of a dusty garage! But just when Scouse (formerly Roger) thinks he has found his forever home… a royal TV appeal flashes across the screen asking for his return. Will he choose the comforts of a palace, or the warm love of a friend?
5. For which age group is your book “The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway?
A5. It’s for 6-11 age range, for the parent to read out loud, or independent reading for older children.
6. What is your favorite Quote?
A6. You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think. A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)
7. What do you like the most about your country?
A7. I like its rich cultural diversity, with different counties having their own unique features. Whether it’s accents, food or landmarks.
8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
A8. Guided reading is a brilliant interactive way of engaging children. Asking questions like “What would you do if you were Roger?”, for example, or “What emotions do you think such and such a character is feeling?” It’s great when parents and teachers can step into the characters too while reading the book.
9. What does literary success look like to you?
A9. Literacy is a gateway to life-long skills. If a child is eager to turn the pages, anticipating the next chapter, then I feel I’ve succeeded. Mostly reading should be enjoyable and never a chore. The reader should be invested in the characters.
10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
A10. I have many heroes in my life, including my family and friends. Pupils I have taught have inspired me to champion literacy. The writer Jimmy McGovern was my English Teacher. His lessons were fun and interactive and gave me a love of stories.
Buy books on Amazon :
The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway (Liverpool (LFC) Version)
Sassy Reviews 