Starlight shines on Teesside author

A children’s author has stepped into the spotlight with a new book release and a high-profile invite.

Darlington writer Lisette Auton, a former Tees Valley Artist of the Year, was invited to Downing Street as part of Penguin’s 90th birthday celebrations and her involvement in the Puffin World of Stories initiative with the National Literacy Trust.

At a gathering in Number 11 Downing Street, Lisette was joined by fellow authors Nadia Shireen, Tom Percival, Richard Osman and Cressida Cowell, as well as several public figures, in backing Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ campaign for every UK primary school to have a library by the end of this parliament.

Lisette, far right, with fellow authors Nadia Shireen, Tom Percival and Cressida Cowell

Lisette said: “I thought I was just making up the numbers. 

“I didn’t expect someone from Darlo to be given an opportunity like this.

“It turns out I was standing alongside some of the absolute greats – Michael Morpurgo, Cressida Cowell, Richard Osman! 

“And then Rachel Reeves made the big announcement about school libraries. 

“I was gobsmacked.”

Lisette’s latest novel The Starlight Rebel has now been released by Puffin. 

Known for championing neurodivergent voices, she explores themes of bravery and belonging in her work.

Lisette added: “It’s a book for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit in, who’s wanted to break free and find their people – their rebels.

“To have that story launch at the same time as this huge push for school libraries? That’s the kind of magic you can’t plan.”

As part of her Artist of the Year role, Lisette mentored new writers and supported young talent at Darlington Library while developing her own projects.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Lisette remains a fantastic ambassador for our region and she’s another great example of the exceptional creative talent we have flourishing on our doorstep. 

“She’s helping to inspire the next generation of readers and writers – and to see her representing our region at Downing Street and releasing her new book with some of our help is fantastic.” 

To find out more about The Starlight Rebel, see here.

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