At the end of August I will be cycling the Hebridean Way across 10 islands, to celebrate the publication of my second book, The Edge of the Silver Sea. Along the way I'll be stopping at local schools to deliver free creative writing workshops to hundreds of pupils.

Inspired by the Hebrides, The Edge of the Silver Sea is set on the fictional island of Roscoe.

About the Book

All 13-year-old Blair Zielinski wants is a way off the remote Scottish island her parents have dragged her to. Roscoe is home to thousands of deer, a couple of hundred people, a complete lack of phone signal, and some unusual violet-eyed creatures.

Blair is miserable, until an otherworldly woman with antlers, one of the island's darkly magical fey folk, offers her an irresistible deal: complete three tasks and Blair's wish will be granted.

As she unravels the island's secrets, Blair soon discovers that a fey bargain cannot be broken, and her wish has put everyone on Roscoe at risk. Can Blair find a way to save her family, and the place at the edge of the silver sea that she has come to call home?

From the author of The Sky Beneath the Stone, this wildly magical upper middle-grade fantasy explores family and friendship, the balance between humans and nature, and the people and places we embrace as our own. The Edge of the Silver Sea deftly weaves Celtic mythology and folklore -- from kelpies and selkies, to will-o'-the-wisps and river spirits -- with themes of environmentalism, in Alex Mullarky's trademark captivating style.

About Mermaids

Mermaids is a UK charity working to support transgender, non-binary and gender diverse children, young people and their families. Mermaids' vision is a safe, inclusive society where trans children and young people are empowered to live their best lives.

As a queer non-binary author, I know just how important Mermaids' work is in supporting gender diverse young people. My writing features trans and non-binary characters, magical and otherwise. I believe representation is so important in children's books in helping us to understand who we are.

Every donation made through Just Giving will allow Mermaids to support more young trans people, giving them the freedom to explore their gender identity and thrive.

10% of author royalties from sales of The Edge of the Silver Sea will also be donated to Mermaids.

About the Journey

I will be cycling around 150 miles from Vatersay to Stornoway, visiting seven schools along the route. Along the way I'll vary between camping and staying in local hostels and B&Bs.

My bike is almost as old as I am, but in just as good shape! I've never been on a big cycling adventure like this before but I'm very excited for it, and I've got some lovely bike-expert friends to help me prepare and hopefully join me along the way!

The isle of Roscoe was inspired by the time I've spent in the Inner Hebrides and the Small Isles, and I'm really looking forward to finally visiting the Outer Hebrides.