Helen Cresswell (1934-2005) started writing at the age of six. At that time her primary interest was poetry. As well as being the author of many critically acclaimed novels such as the LIZZIE DRIPPING series, MOONDIAL and THE BAGTHORPE SAGA, she wrote many television scripts, including adaptations of her own novels and other successful series such as THE DEMON HEADMASTER, and THE PHOENIX AND THE CARPET. In 2000 she received a BAFTA Writer's Award, and four of her books, including The Piemakers and The Bongleweed were runners up for the Carnegie Medal.
