Alex Evans

Some of my most vivid memories are from those reading sessions with teachers by the window. There was something about those moments that made me fall in love with storytelling in a way I still can't fully explain. My teachers also gave me the confidence to pursue creative writing, and I will never forget the pride of being recognised for a poem inspired by Stevie Smith's Not Waving, but Drowning. Not a light choice for a young girl, but somehow it felt important. And of course, who can forget memorising poetry each weekend and reciting it on Monday mornings with your heart in your throat? At the time it felt like a test, but looking back, I realise it gave us all a voice, and more importantly, taught us to be proud of our voices.

After Garden House, I went on to Wycombe Abbey and then Columbia University in New York. I spent several years working in film development, helping shape projects from the ground up, before taking the leap to the other side of the desk and becoming a writer myself.

These days I write romantic comedies, holiday films, and YA — stories with heart, humour, and hopefully a little magic. I've been lucky enough to work with some wonderful collaborators and film companies, and my holiday project A Frosty Christmas is currently in development with Chrishell Stause attached to star.

I currently split my time between Los Angeles and New York with my husband and our daughter, Persephone, who I have every hope will one day be wearing the Garden House uniform herself.