Nicola Skinner

Nicola Skinner, born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is an author known for her debut novel Bloom. She spent her early childhood in Brazil, engaging with dramatic telenovelas, comics, and beach visits. At nine, Skinner moved to strict British boarding schools.

Skinner worked as a journalist and copywriter. She wrote for various publications, including tabloids, broadsheets, and women's magazines. Bloom marks her entry into children's literature and tells a surreal story about Sorrel Fallowfield, a well-behaved girl who discovers mysterious seeds. These seeds bring about unexpected changes in her, sparking wild urges to plant them in unusual places. The novel explores themes of obedience, nature, and self-discovery.

Bloom reflects on her feelings about school, nature, office work, motherhood, and hopes for future generations. It draws inspiration from The Secret Garden, James and The Giant Peach, and Harriet the Spy.

Bloom was recognized as one of The Guardian's Best Books of 2019.

Photo credit: Gareth Iwan Jones