Martha’s expertise in adult second language and literacy opened her eyes to the paucity of short books for adults like those young children read by themselves. She asked her Newcastle University colleague and creative writer Margaret “What’s the adult equivalent of Where the Wild Things Are? Can we work with creative writers to produce books for pleasure reading by adults with emerging literacy?” They regularly hold the writers’ workshops and one-to-one consultations that result in the Simply Stories books.

Margaret (Manya) Wilkinson is a prose and script writer whose work ranges from BBC radio plays to her most recent and widely acclaimed novel, ‘Lublin.’ She contributes regularly to the writing magazine, Mslexia, with articles and guides to writing drama and prose fiction. Like Martha she’s been a staff/faculty member in the Newcastle University School of English Literature, Language and Linguistics. She continues to teach and to mentor creative writers. 

Bailey is a graphic designer based in Newcastle upon Tyne. She earned her MA degree in Language and Linguistics from Newcastle University, where she first got involved with Simply Stories. With practical experience in the design and print industries, she helps us primarily with the creation of books and the communication with artists. Her favourite part of Simply Stories is the magical moment when text meets artwork, resulting in a brand new book for readers to enjoy.

Rachael is a recent graduate of Newcastle University who currently works in the academic publishing industry. Rachael joined the Simply Stories team in 2024 whilst completing her MLitt in English Literature at Newcastle, having previously held a variety of editorial and marketing roles during her studies. Her passion for accessibility and inclusivity within literature first ignited her interest in Simply Stories’ mission. Rachael works on updating our website and contributing to the production and marketing of our books.

Emily Hawkins is a creative writing and children’s literature specialist, having earned undergraduate and graduate degrees at Newcastle University, UK. In her work with children, she has been involved in promoting reading among young readers including those with special educational needs. She’s a whizz at finding applications of her knowledge to adults with limited literacy.

Based on her belief in art as a powerful tool to bridge gaps between people, Alessandra works with organizations such as the North East England Trust for Aphasia and Curious Arts while she studies Fine Art at Newcastle University. Drawing on her upbringing in Venezuela, her own artwork explores the complexities of immigration and the nuances of adapting to new cultures and languages.