While my new book Once continues to be printed, trimmed, transported, unpacked, dusted, dropped, picked up again and stacked into very neat piles in preparation for its release on 1 August, my thoughts have turned to a new story.

I've decided to have some more fun in the microscopic world I first explored in Worm Story. This time I'm planning the adventures of a germ who wants to make a difference with his life, possibly as a doctor. I'm afraid that's all I can tell you at this early stage. More details next month when I've had some more ideas.

Meanwhile, I think it's about time for my annual memo to information-seekers. If you're visiting to find out information about me, either for a school assignment or just because you're a sticky beak, don't forget to have a dig around in some of the more out-of-the-way corners of the site. They might not all seem as glamorous at first as the flashy audio-equipped Bookshelf or the eager-to-please Free Book section, but if you have a bit of a rummage you'll unearth some gold-plated and little-known facts.

For example, in Most Asked Questions you can discover what inspires me as a writer, and also why Friday was my favourite day at school. In the Photo Album you can witness just how far I was prepared to go to model myself on Roald Dahl when I was seven. And in Morris A to Z, all is revealed about where I get my ideas and what sort of legs I think a writer needs.

Before I sign off, a couple more things I must mention. The Australian Theatre For Young People are adapting Boy Overboard into a stage play, and the season starts next month. If you live in Sydney, or have a chauffeur and/or pilot at your disposal, you might be interested in checking out the details

And the MS Readathon continues until 20 July, so you've got plenty of time to register and get into it. As 2005 Readathon Patron, I can heartily recommend the satisfaction of reading lots of books and earning prizes and the gratitude of others, all without leaving your favourite chair or patch of carpet.

Until next time, oo-roo and happy reading/information-seeking/theatre-going/prize and gratitude-earning.

27 June 2005