School Library Association in Kate’s memory

Kate often spoke about how much she admired school librarians and the wonderful work that they do. She loved visiting schools on author visits and I saw for myself how she adored engaging with the children and answering their questions. She replied to every letter she received from her young fans and there is no doubt that her books set out to enthral, entertain and inspire them.

The School Library Association aims to ensure that all schools in the UK have their own, or shared, staffed library. Many friends and colleagues of Kate have asked if there is a charity that they could donate to in her memory and my sisters and I all think that the SLA is a charity that Kate would have been right behind.

Money you donate will be passed directly to the SLA from here.

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the many wonderful messages of support and love for Kate that we have received - they are all very much appreciated.

With love from Etta, Charlotte & Louisa Saunders.

The School Library Association has said the following lovely words about Kate:

The SLA are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of beloved children’s author, Kate Saunders. Many SLA members will know Kate from her Carnegie shortlisted novels, Five Children on the Western Front (2014) and The Land of Neverendings (2019). It was always a delight to work with Kate over the years, which included welcoming her to our 2010 Weekend Course in Nottingham, where she hosted an inspiring drinks reception for her novel, Beswitched, as well as celebrating the release of Five Children on the Western Front with a special blog from former SLA President, Chris Riddell, in 2014. Kate was an avid champion of school libraries, and we are immensely grateful for all her efforts in advocating for the important work that they’re home to. We are honoured that Kate’s family are asking people to support our work in Kate’s memory so that all children can benefit from a thriving reading culture.