THE STORY THAT WOULDN'T GROW OLD

Geraldine McCaughrean has been announced as the author chosen to write the authorised sequel to PETER PAN. The announcement was made as the world's book trade came together at the London International Book Fair.

In August 2004 the Special Trustees of Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital launched the search for a sequel to J. M. Barrie's timeless masterpiece to mark the work's centenary. Publishers and literary agents worldwide were invited to put forward the names of up to two authors to be considered for the project.

Geraldine is an award-winning writer who has written over 130 books and plays for both adults and children. She recently won the Whitbread Children's Book Award for the third time with her latest book NOT THE END OF THE WORLD. In her entry, the judges found something that captured the elusive spirit of the original whilst offering a fresh and astounding creative response. Like the original, it will appeal to both adults and children alike.

Geraldine McCaughrean comments:
'It is an astonishing, daunting privilege to be let loose in Neverland, armed with nothing but a pen, and knowing I'm walking in Barrie's revered footprints... But completing this book is going to be the writing adventure of a lifetime - and such amazing fun! I am delighted beyond words'.

David Barrie, one of the judges, comments:
'It was a tough challenge for the judges - we were presented with lots of wonderfully imaginative entries. Geraldine had a real fight on her hands, but she won through in the end. I think J. M. Barrie would have liked her style - if I'm wrong, he'll be back to haunt us!'