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Samantha Mattocks

Award-winning author and journalist, creator of the Magical Mister Mishkins™ series

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my writing motivation

Home / my writing motivation
#meethegym fountain pen on paper Beth Kempton
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Meet the Writer Day 3 – Motivation

by Samantha Mattocksupdated on 10 July, 20237 July, 2023 2 Comments on Meet the Writer Day 3 – Motivation

Day 3 of #meethewriter, where you can find out more about my creative life, as prompted by Beth Kempton.

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What a gorgeous way to spend a Friday, wandering a What a gorgeous way to spend a Friday, wandering around Halesworth and enjoying the sunshine. I was with my dear friend @paulasmith.2025 and we had a lovely wander around the many independent shops before treating ourselves to coffee and cake @blackdogdelihalesworth - espresso financier and sour cherry bakewell. We shared, of course. Half and half, so we had the best of both worlds. Halesworth was wonderful. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly, and the glorious sunshine truly was the icing on the cake! Fridays don't come much better than this. Heaven 🧡
Some heroes have paws, a beard, and a bark... Intr Some heroes have paws, a beard, and a bark... Introducing Nero the Hero! Prepare to meet your new favourite superhero as Nero the Hero reveals his secret! Pre-order your copy today: https://www.thegreatbritishbookshop.co.uk/products/nero-the-hero "A charming story with plenty of heart," C Povey. Nero is no ordinary dog. This miniature schnauzer has a beard, a bark, and a secret. When danger strikes, he transforms into Nero the Hero, a powerful protector with extraordinary abilities. Alongside his human, twelve-year-old Jack, Nero dives into fast-paced adventures filled with mystery, heart, and just a touch of fun. But when Jack makes a brave mistake and finds himself in real danger, Nero must face his greatest challenge yet to save his best friend alone. Perfect for readers aged 8-12, this highly illustrated chapter book blends action-packed fantasy with an engaging, accessible style, making it ideal for reluctant readers and confident young bookworms alike. With short chapters and dynamic illustrations, Nero the Hero is a thrilling start to a children’s fantasy series about friendship, bravery, and daring rescues. Fans of Claude and The Hounds of Penhallow Hall will love this action-filled adventure starring a heroic dog and the boy who believes in him. From the author of the popular Magical Mister Mishkins series, Samantha Mattocks introduces a bold new hero first seen in The Magic of Mister Mishkins. Beautifully illustrated by Gerda Smit, this is a story full of adventure, loyalty, and the power of believing in something extraordinary.
Something new is coming... Time to meet your new Something new is coming... Time to meet your new hero - Nero the Hero! The latest book from Samantha Mattocks, author of The Magical Mister Mishkins series. Out 25 June - pre-order now!
I have never been an artist. That kind of creativi I have never been an artist. That kind of creativity and me have never gone hand in hand. But I always wanted to try. I'd doodle and draw - generally shapes where only I recognised the meaning. Two years ago, I began to try watercolour but something happened that made me stop. A friend of a friend came along this year and not only gave me a lesson, but also a gift bag of paints, brushes, paper and more. Most days, I try to create something. Some watercolours are more successful than others. But there is something I rather love about the cats I am painting, and it felt only fitting that this be my first brave step to share. Thank you @michellemouldartist for the guidance and inspiration, and @paulasmith.2025 for being an amazing friend to us both. Happy Saturday, Samantha xx
Happy fifth birthday Mishkins! I don't think I h Happy fifth birthday Mishkins! I don't think I have ever shared this photo before, which was the moment I first fell in love with this little ginger kitten. It was the contended smile on his face, the pure happiness radiating from this tiny ball of fluff. Five years on and he's still smiling. Happy birthday Mishkins! You may be known as Mister Mishkins to the world, but you'll always be just 'Mishks' to me 🧡
I wanted a quick lunch today as I was busy writing I wanted a quick lunch today as I was busy writing, so went for this incredibly colourful plate! A toasted @crostamollica wholemeal flatbread/wrap, with a super thin omelette topped with pepper and oregano. On top was a little bit of cheddar, diced radish, and chopped lettuce. The finishing touch was the amazing beetroot ketchup from @rbprovisions - so good! I then had a great afternoon working on my next book- details will be revealed imminently!
I know that times are tight for all of us, so here I know that times are tight for all of us, so here are ways to support your favourite author without costing you a penny! Thank you in advance, Samantha xx
Did you watch #artemisii return to earth in the ea Did you watch #artemisii return to earth in the early hours? I happened to wake around 5 minutes before they lost contact, so was able to watch it all. I am thankful they are all back safely. My phone is always on mono after 8.30pm, and I took one screenshot. Fair to say, I got rather lucky! @nasa @nasaartemis
Capturing the rainbow magic this morning 🧡 That m Capturing the rainbow magic this morning 🧡 That must mean it is time for @gerdasmit_illustrator and I to begin work on the next book... #middlegradeauthor #indieauthor #kidlit #rainbows #anthromorphic
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