LEWISHAM-RAISED writer Malorie Blackman is the new Children's Laureate and has promised to defend local libraries.
Ms Blackman, bestselling author of the highly-acclaimed Noughts & Crosses teen series, will hold the Waterstones-sponsored post until 2015.
She takes over from Julia Donaldson and was presented with her medal at a ceremony at King’s Place in central London yesterday morning.
The role is awarded once every two years to an eminent author or illustrator of children’s books to celebrate outstanding achievement in their field. She is the eighth author to get the post.
She said: "A love of books has opened so many doors for me.
"Stories have inspired me and taught me to aspire. I've been a professional author for over 20 years, so I feel now is the time to give something back.
"I hope to instil in every child I meet my love and enthusiasm for reading and stories.
"And as I would never have become an author if it hadn't been for my local library as a child, I intend to continue Julia Donaldson's amazing, indefatigable work advocating for our nation's public library service."
As laureate, she will call on teachers and parents to spend at least 10 minutes per day on books.
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