Click here to send me a letter >

If I lived in Ally's World...

Posted 19/04/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 5
rating

I would....
1. Annoy Linn; 2. Try on all Rowan's clothes; 3. Go to a GVN with Ally; 4. Learn all the pets' names; 5. Ask Billy out (cute goofball!!); 6. Do crazy things with Kyra; 7. Go to Ally Pally; 8. Take Rolf and Winslet out for a walk; 9.Write a song with Rowan.
Love the books, so keep 'em coming!
Elena

Big Fan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted 18/03/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

I love Karen's books because they are so funny and seriously help me with my school work. They help because of the ideas they give me (WOW). I have read all the Stella Etc. books and love them ALL!!! I am overdoing it on the exclamation marks like Megan from Portbay (actually on holiday in Portbay). I have read 3 Ally's world books and love them too because of the juicy plot and intriguing conflict (brill). I have read An Urgent Message Of Wowness and am half way through Marshmallow Magic And The Wild Rose Rouge! They are fab too!! I have read 2 Indie Kidd books and found them dead funny! I advise anyone and everyone to read any books by phenomenal author Karen McCombie! Happy Reading!
Jennifer

You are Ally Love!

Posted 18/03/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I really, really, really, really (ok, you get the point!) like your books! I've read only Ally's World so far (I don't live in the UK and I can't find all your books here in India). but the way you deal with the characters and the v. funny situations is amazing! And after reading about you on the site, I'm convinced that you're a lot like Ally Love (hence the subject). Am I right? There, now you've got to reply to me to argue with me about why you are/aren't like her!
Supraja, India

URGENT! NEED MORE ALLY'S WORLD BOOKS!

Posted 18/03/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I am like the biggest fan of Ally's World – I started reading them I think like December or January but now I've nearly finished the collection. I got a postcard saying I got the book 'Daisy, Dad and the Huge Small Surprise' and now I'm going to the library to collect it, so I've got TWO more books to read now, but I want more, more, MORE Ally's World books, so please write another Ally's World book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sarah (please please please!!)

Sadie Rocks, er rocks!!

Posted 28/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I bought the first two 'Sadie Rocks' books yesterday, and I've nearly finished the second one! I absolutely LOVE them, and stayed up really late last night finishing the first one! When will the next one be out??? Apart from that, all I have to say is you rock, Stella Etc, Ally's World and Sadie Rocks rock, and I can't wait to read your next book!
Dani x
PS I've read some of your novels too (Urgent Message of Wowness, Marshmallow Magic and My Funny Valentine)

Thoughts on Ally... with an extra added ounce of randomness:)

Posted 28/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

When I was a little kid (like 1 of Salma's kid sisters) I would always sit for hours on end, wishing that I could jump into books and do stuff with all of the characters... well here's a list of what I would do in Ally’s World (I'm gonna add some Stella Etc . madness into it as well):
1) go out to the Shingles cafe' with Alfie (mmmmmmmmmmmmm....)
2) dare Rowan to go to the Camden Market and get her hair dyed purple and pink and styled into random braids and bunches (not that it will be much of a dare for her)
3) Eat Linn’s Philadelphia Lite (yummy!)
4) Go to Jamaica with Kellie and Stella... (cool blue waters)
5) Have a sleepover with Ally, Stella, Kellie, Kyra, Sandie, Rachael, Megan, Tilda, Amber, Chloe and Salma
6) Laugh till I burst at Chloe's holiday stories in Ireland =D
Love, Natasha

Thoughts on Ally... with an extra added ounce of randomness:)

Posted 28/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

1) go out to the Shingles cafe' with Alfie(mmmmmmmmmmmmm....)

2) dare Rowan to go to the Camden Market and get herhair dyed purple and pink and styled into random braids and bunches (not thatit will be much of a dare for her)

3) Eat Linn’s Philadelphia Lite (yummy!)

4) Go to Jamaica with Kellie and Stella... (cool bluewaters)

5) Have a sleepover with Ally, Stella, Kellie, Kyra,Sandie, Rachael, Megan, Tilda, Amber, Chloe and Salma

6) Laugh till I burst at Chloe's holiday stories inIreland =D

Love, Natasha

Grouching

Posted 20/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Arrrrrgghhhhhh! My cousin drives me mad! At least, she used to. I lent her one of your books (they are far to important to be given away) and guess what? She shut up! No more complaining! I can now sleep at night without having to listen to her grouching (has she been taking lessons from Linn?). Hurray! Thank you!!!!
Scara

One word!

Posted 20/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

I''m not quite sure there is a word to describe your books, Karen, but if I had to choose one I would choose PHENOMENAL!!! At first I got the 2nd book from the 'Stella ETC' series free from a magazine and after a few pages, I simply couldn't put it down! After that I BEGGED my mum (I was literally on my hands and knees!) to log onto www.amazon.com and order all of them; even the one I already read (Sweet Talking TJ)! Seriously Karen, you are my idol and I feel that no author in the WHOLE WORLD could match up to you! I want to be just like you!
Bestest wishes,
Hopeful Heather xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

I had a thought...

Posted 20/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

...why not do a sort of companion book for 'Stella Etc' with Frankie's viewpoint of the first week after Stella moves? That would be cool!
Little Miss X
PS I have ordered the Sadie Rocks books after reading the preview and can't wait!
PPS My sister wants to be in a story of yours. Now I think of it, she would be a good character as she is totally mad – 10-and-a-half years old, short, brown hair in under-chin bob, hazel eyes, glasses, Asperger's Syndrome, home-educated, can't stand me... etc etc.

'Sadie Rocks' rocks!

Posted 08/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I just got the first two 'Sadie Rocks' books today, they rock! How many will there be in the series? Chloe ;D
PS: Awesome cover illustrations!

Ally on film! (Er, almost...)

Posted 08/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

Me and my friends love Ally's World and we decided (using my dad's camers - oopsy!) to make episodes of each book. it took us 3 years to edit them all and make them perfect (I was Ally!). And some day (hopefully!) I'd love to show them to you. I just wanted to say you have filled so many a pleasant hour of reading and film making time, and I really appreciate it.
Love Tilly

Not the toileting in the woods...

Posted 08/02/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Omigod i LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!! the Ally's World series!! PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS!!!!!!! I've read every book in the series at least twice and I know you might not want to (hopefully because you can't think of any more plots; it would be better than an outright NO!!!) because I feel I can relate to the characters and the storylines and the mortification that Ally feels every time she tries to talk to Alfie!!! A few of my favourites are Angels, Arguments and A Furry Merry Christmas, Rainbows, Rowan and True True Romance (?), Crushes, Cliques and the Cool School Trip (man, I wish what happened to Sandie would happen to me!!! No, not the toileting in the woods!!!), and Sisters, Super-Creeps and Slushy, Gushy Love Songs. Please consider my earlier request as I know many will be waiting hopefully for another marvel of an Ally's World installment to hit the shelves!! I know I am!!!
From Izzie (Double-Salma Izzie - I love Salma 'cos the way you describe her makes her sound like me!!!) New Zealand

Hello from Mumbai!

Posted 24/01/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

I live in Mumbai, India and the only book I have been able to get here is forever and ever and evie.
i don'y know how but it would be great if i were able to get more books by you:)
do you know if i could order them?
i know you are probably to busy for this kinda stuff.(sorry to disturb)
i know a lot of kids here that would love your books if i could be able to introduce them to your books!!!!!!!!
lots of ideas,
Vinya,11

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted 10/01/2008 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Hi!!!! I just wanted to say Happy New Year!! (Apparently it is year of the rat!!) I LOVE your books!!!!!!!!! They're funny, sad, happy and serious all at the same time!!! I LOVE them!! (Erm... did I already say that?! Sorry!!!) Anyway, I hope everyone enjoys Karen's books as much as me!!!!
Meabh

Exciting excitement!

Posted 11/12/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I can't WAIT until your new series comes out (my library must be a bit annoyed with me, as I keep getting/reserving your books!). I AM SO EXCITED! i need to let it all out. Honestly, I'm trembling – I logged in and saw your new blog and practically died! I've asked for the whole Alys World series for Christmas, so I can read them thousands of times! And will ask 4 the new book for 'nothing special' day (I made it up, 4th March!). ONLY 2 MORE DAYS OF SCHOOL! luv ya all out there...
xxHEAVENLYANGELAMYxx X

Herrrllo!!!!

Posted 02/12/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Uh... Hi!! I lurrve your books so so much!! They are awesome, dude! I have read all of your books but my favourite ones are deffo the 'Ally's World' series, I LOVE THEM!! I would love to have Rowan as my twin 'cause well, she is like sooo like me. I am such an airhead lol =p. Also, Alfie wears cool shoes, Converse I mean. I have black ones with multi-coloured bits on lol. I also love Colin and all the other cats and animals too. I love animals and nature and stuff. I have a cat called Lucky and her belly is fat and she often sits around and moans at me but I love her lots really. Now I must go as she's mioawing and is going to savagely headbutt me if I don't feed her. ILY! X.
Bubi
Loveage
Rowan's twin <33.

Questions, Questions and more Questions

Posted 02/12/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 2
rating

Now where to start, as I don't want to bore you to death. Well ,firstly, (I know you must hear this a lot) but your books are sooo inspiring. I actually want to become a writer now!! Secondly, when I was younger I once sent you an email requesting if you could my name in your next book. Whether it's a HUGE coincidence that in 'Stella Etc ' Stella's friend is Frankie (Francesca) I don't really mind. I still get all choked up when I read about the character...
Francesca

Grown-up life versus Ally's World!

Posted 02/12/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 2
rating

I'm a very big fan of your Ally's World series (it's the only series of your books I've read so far). I first discovered them when I was about 13 or 14 and bought the first 7 but then couldn't find anymore. Poo. Anyway, I'm now 19 and have recently been re-reading them as a bit of fun. They still appeal to me so much, even at the age I am now! You're writing is such a joy to read and I always find myself laughing out loud. They really cheer me up when all this grown-up life stuff stresses me out, haha. It's so nice to get lost in Ally's World and family. Rowan is one of my favourite characters -- I used to want to be her! (Actually, a part of me still does). So, thanks again for creating such brilliant work and even though I'm nearly 20, I do actually plan on reading many more of your books. :)
Samantha

you are the best @ explaining stuff!

Posted 28/10/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 5
rating

hi karen! your advice on coming up with characters is brill!!! thanks to you i'm now writing my own story called "flushed pink". i wont tell what it's about - you'll have to wait till it's out on the shelves – ha! but i will say that i combined bits of my mates together, mixed it all up and hey-presto! out comes a story!
India
p.s. your books really are the best in the world to me.

I love Ally

Posted 30/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 5
rating

hi 2 all ally lovers! i really really love allys world books - i think they're so funny and very addictive! I have read each book over 10 times each and i still love them. I think if i had a wish it would be that ally was my bff and i would hang out with her and her demented family. I think me and ally are very alike:
1. i have 9 pets
2. i have
3 brothers and sisters
3. i love cats
4. i love sweets and nachos
Grace

Again xD

Posted 30/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

Hey again ;b i just wont to say what I LOVE YOUR BOOKS ^^On danish are JEG ELSKER DINE BØGER Hehe xD it whos just that <33
Silja

:D

Posted 30/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Hello ;b I'm coming from Denmark, so i'm not that good to english, sorry xD I just wont to say I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!!!!
Silja (L)

Random ramblings

Posted 17/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

HELLO! I absolutely LOVE all your books but my favourite ones are Ally's World. If I were in Ally's World I'd...
1. Eat some nachos with Ally while sitting and watching something on their dodgy t.v.
2. I'd ask Rowan to do a makeover on me, sparkly glitter and all (oo-er!)
3. I'd raid the fridge and eat all Linn's yogurts (yum)
4. Take the dogs for a walk around Ally Pally and see Billy (the goofball!)
5. Snog Alfie
6. Hang out with Kyra and co. and of course...
7. Cuddle Tor and all his animals (even the stick insects!!!)
Lots of love,
Tilly

Bus Journey = zZZ

Posted 12/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I just wanted to say THANK YOU for writing the Ally's world series, I have been reading them on my incrediably loooong bus journey from school. better go now, I have about 10 pieces of homework that have crept up on me over the week - Grrr... Anyway hope you had a good summer!
Claudia :-) =)

Stop reading e-mails and get on with your work!

Posted 07/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

I love all your books, especially the ones with mad families and pets! My family is quite nutty but we only have 2 hamsters and a stray cat we look after but don't bring in the house cos my dad doesn't let (but we do sometimes anyway!). and surprisingly Ally Love reminds me of my MUM than anyone else!! (Mainly in her sense of humour and I guess yours then too!)
I love your style of writing, how even when serious things are happening its still light and funny and enjoyable and you know everything will be alright in the end.
I live in North London too, and often go skating at Ally Pally with my family – it's great there!
Anyway, stop reading your emails and get back to your writing! I'm waiting for more books to come out!
Zahava

From not-your-number-one fan!

Posted 07/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Thanks to Mizz magazine, I found my fave author of all time!!! They featured a page of Marshmallow Magic and I related sooooo much to it that I got the book. Then I found more of your books and fell in love with Ally, Stella and Lemmie (and looking forward to new characters, fingers crossed). Thanks to you I have found my passion and my talent (not to brag) for writing. Keep writing and you will soon inspire others to be as good a writer as you are.
Sarah
(P.S. I know you must get people saying they're your no.1 fans a lot so I'll just say I'm one of you most dedicated and loving fans!)

An Urgent Mesage Of Gothness

Posted 04/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

In 'An Urgent Message Of Wowness', Sylv is a goth (you probably know that, being your character and all), but an intelligent, witty, sparky one. I just want to thank you on behalf of all the goths out there for showing people that we aren't all crazy phsycos (just me!).
ScaryScara (otherwise known as Lara!)

mi-mi luvs u!

Posted 04/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

I love your books but i think my pet turtle Mi-mi loves them better! She's always sitting on them and looking at them. I've got Jacqueline Wilson books as well but Mi-mi never seems to do the same things with HER books, though Mi-mi's owner before us (next door neighbour) loves your books as well!
*fushia* (and Mi-mi)

They're addictive!!

Posted 04/09/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

Just wanted 2 say how very much I love your Ally's World Series! I think that they r gr8 books and
r sooo enjoyable 2 read! I often laugh out loud when I'm reading them, even if I am slowly falling asleep, as it is about 3 o'clock in the morning by the time I've stopped reading your books – they r unnaturally addictive!
:c)
*Misti*

Is it me, or are school holidays boring...?

Posted 23/08/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

Especially when you have little brovs annoying u, running around screeching at the top of their voices etc. But it's ok - i've got ur (ie Karen's) books to read!
See ya,
Ellie

THAT REALLY-HARD-TO-REMEMBER-AND-SAY THING

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

I LUV HOW IN STELLA ETC. HER FRIEND HAS THAT REALLY-HARD-TO-REMEMBER-AND-SAY THING CALLED... UH... EPILIPSY! (THATS IT!) I THINK IT'S REALLY GOOD HOW U TALK ABOUT REAL PROBLEMS IN UR BOOKS. MY BESSIE MATE'S LITTLE SIS HAS JUST BEEN DIAGNOSED EPILIPTIC AND SHE'S REALLY SWEET (SHE'S ONLY IN YEAR 2) AND SHE'S CALLED EVIE AND SHE HUGS ELLEN (BEST MATE) PRACTICALLY ON SIGHT - WHICH ELLEN HATES. EVERYONES THINKS SHE'S REALLY CUTE (EXCEPT ELLEN, WHO THINKS SHE'S ANNOYING). LUV UR BOOKS! xx
ROXY :D

BELLY DANCING IS COOOOOOOOOOL!!!

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 9
rating

What is so embarassing about belly dancing?? I think it is sooo cool!!!!!! I luv the jingly, sparkly costumes (like Rowan. I sometimes go with my step-mum and even though I am the youngest, I am DEFINITLEY the BEST! I luv ALL your Ally's World and Stella Etc books. I'm just like Ally – I am the only sane one in the family, though my m8s probably wont agree! (I wonder why?) I have to get on with writing MY book now...
from Bryony the belly dancer

THE FABEROONY EXSTRIONDINARILY ALLYS WORLD BOOK!!!

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

I LOVE ALLYS WORLD BOOKS THEY ARE SUPERDUPERLY BRILLTASTICLY GRUEL – CROSS BETWEEN COOL AND GREAT (OK SO I COPIED THIS WORD OFF OF MEAN GIRLS BUT GIMME A BREAK I THOUGHT IT WAS COOL LOL) I SAY LOL TOO MUCH LOL SEE? ANYWAY WAT WAS I ON ABOUT? OH YEAH ALLYS WORLD LOL. I LOVE IVY SHE IS SOOOOO ADORABLE AND PRECIOUS IS SOOOO FUNNI COS SHR REMINDS ME OF A YAPPY LITTLE FLUFF BALLL POODLE CALLED SUNNY WHO LIVES NEAR ME. MY FAV ALLYS WORLD BOOK IS DATES DOUBLE DATES AND BIG BIG TROUBLE OR MAYBE IT'S DAD DAISY AND THE HUGE SMALL SUPRISE? OR TATOOS TELLTALES AND TERRIBLE TERRIBLE TWINS? OR MAYBE ITS RAINBOWS ROWAN AND TRUE TRUE ROMANCE?OR ALL FOUR? IM CONFUSED AS YOU PROBOBLY ARE (PLEASE EXSCUSE MY DISGUSTEROUS SPELLING)
LUV EMILY XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
P.S. I ALSO LIKE HASSLES HEART PINGS AND SAD HAPPY ENDINGS
P.P.S. I JUST WANTED TO PUT P.P.S. DOWN LOL

QUICK, GET ME A WHOLE BOX OF VALUE TISSUES AND A MATE!

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Hyperventalating... Phew, phew! Karen!!! Don't tell me that "Sunshine, Sunburns, And Not So Sweeet Nothings" is the last Ally's World book!! Last week when I finished it, I just started crying madly and my hamster was looking at me weirdly. So I called for my best mate and told her to bring me a whole box of Tesco Value tissues. You can't beat a good film with a sympathetic friend, a non stop staring hamster and big box of tissues. Oh, and lots of Jaffa Cakes. How will I live without Crazy Rowan, Picky Linn, Tidy Gran, Billy the Berk, Kyra the yap yap yapper, Pink Ivy, animal maniac Tor, Stanley (not the dead goldfish, chewy Winslet, Old Rolf and Freaky-Smiley Ben? And most important of all, Ally! She's the best book character eva! Oh, I almost forgot about the (yummy) Gourgous/Beautiful/Scrummy Alfie!
All my love. Oh, I finished the tissues!!!
Chiara
PS The other day, I fell in a hole coz the builders were too busy drinking tea. Oops.

I'M A FAIRY GODMOTHER AND I CAN MAKE ALL YOUR WISHES COME TRUE!

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

Haha. Not really. You should have seen that coming: after all I've managed to get your attention that way before. Thanks for posting my letter Karen :). You're awesome. George is covered in tar at the moment from sitting under cars... he looks hilarious! Told you he was thick, but I love him LOTS!! x BYE!
love,
LOLLY
PS You thought I'd shut up, didn't you? Go on, admit it, you really did. But I haven't. Karen, please write another book about Lemmie in 'Marshmallow Magic And the Wild Rose Rouge'...

My brain is mush

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

This is taking for EVER! I have to write an English story about the monkey's paw and it is so incredibly boring. It is so old and nowhere near as good as your books! I can't wait until it is over so i can sit down and read your new book 'Bliss...'!
See ya later, alligator!
harley-mushy brain x

Karen McCombie says: In a while, crocodile! (Haven't a clue what the monkey's paw is, but sorry it's turned your brain mushy!!)

Your name...?

Posted 10/07/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Karen, how do you pronounce your surname? Is it like McCombie, with the long ooo sound? (Oooh, he's nice.) Or McCombie, with the o sound (eg in shock) or McCombie, with the oo sound (like in 'oh')? Thanks for helping, I'm really stuck on this one...
Izzy xx
P.S. Am going to find your new books and read them IMMEDIATELY!

Karen McCombie says: It's 'o' like in 'shock'. It's an unusual name, even in Scotland – people are always stuffing an 'r' in it (ie McCrombie – nooooo!).

AHHH!!

Posted 09/05/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

OMG I AM SO EXCITED!!!AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! IM HYPERVENTILATING... OOF – FELL OFF MY CHAIR, STILL CAN'T BREATHE! I have just ordered two of your books off of amazon and I am SOOOO excited! I have read all the Ally's and I am in love with them! (Alfie is so scrummmilishious!) I have just ordered Stella Etc number 1 and 'Marshmallow Magic and the Wild Rose Rouge'! Can't wait to read them! Toodle pip!
Mathilda
PS I have still got a scar from falling off my chair!

I LIVE IN CROUCH END!!

Posted 02/05/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Wow – can I just say your Ally's World is amazing!!!!!! !And its even more amazing because I LIVE IN CROUCH END!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And i love it same as Ally!!!!!!!!!!I
From a girl who likes ! marks (Georgia)

The dog is digging a hole...

Posted 02/05/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 4
rating

I AM SO GONNA MISS ALLY IF 'SUNSHINE,SUNBURN AND NOT SO SWEET NOTHINGS.' IS YOUR LAST ALLY BOOK! I don't think I can live any longer - I have to get my dog to dig a hole so I can bury myself in it. Oh the shame! I really love your books, but I don't want to start reading another one of your series because I am so fond of the Ally's World characters. Since I started reading your books all I want to do is write! I have started my own book now- but more on that later I think my dog's started digging the hole already!
love
Tilly

I LOVE BATH MATS!

Posted 02/05/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Not really. I'm just good at getting your attention. I love your books especially Ally's World (there's one of those sitting in front of me on the computer desk right now) and uhh... well done! I love all the characters and all the mad pets! Specially Colin: I'm very happy that he's a real pussycat! I have a big ginger purry cat like him named George, but George has four legs... not three... he'd be too stupid to cope like that, bless him. I'm so jealous of the Love family's dogs: they have THREE funny, loveable (well, maybe not-so-loveable in Winslet's case) dogs, and I've never had a dog in my life, but i've longed for one for that long. Well, this was a very long message. I'd better stop before you get bored. I'm probably far too late. Ah well.
Lolz

London's resident Kiddie Lit professor (ahem!)

Posted 26/04/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

It’s probably not a good idea for a Year 12 aspiring writer and brand spanking new English Prefect at her geekazoid school to admit that she is in love with the ‘Ally’s World’ series… especially when the Head of English threatened to slit her wrists when a girl walked into her Literature lesson holding a copy of ‘The Princess Diaries: Seventh Heaven’, but what can I say? I love Ally. I am generally obsessed with children’s literature, so when my ten-year-old sister came home with ‘The Past, The Present, and The Loud Loud Girl’, naturally I stole it. And I became hooked. I have never come across a more honest and caring family - especially when Tor tells Rowan off in ‘Butterflies, Bullies, and Bad Bad Habits’! It is so important to promote reading to the younger generation, and your books are one more thing that will hopefully change minds about the reading being ‘uncool’. A truly wonderful series…
From London’s resident Kiddie Lit prof! :o)
P.S. The ending of ‘Hassles, Heart-pings!, and Sad Happy Endings’ = SQUEEE! About time, is all I can say...

Marshmallow Magic & the Evil Socks....

Posted 17/04/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

I so so so SO love Marshmallow Magic & the Wild Rose Rouge. Lemmie is a bit like me in ways; I make my own creations like the evil socks (don't ask) and I am a entirely weird and freaky person. Lemmie... well, she is my idol. Ha! I'm being very serious so don't laugh. I don't know how you make things sound so... MAGICAL. You will probably be my one of my favourite authors EVER. Everyone who reads this.... PLEASE, IF YOU CAN, READ THIS AWESOME BOOK BY KAREN MCCOMBIE (aka... Marshmallow Magic and the WIld Rose Rouge, very long title but oh well, it's quite a long story so, it all fits together, anyway, I keep rambling on and on.. sorry... anyway, please read it if you can, it's one of the best books EVER!!!! You get my point now, right?)
KATIE.... AKA.... CLONE OF LEMMIE..... NEVER MIND!!!!!! OH WELL.... BYE... (you see what I mean by weird and freaky???)

Is this the real Portbay?

Posted 01/04/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 4
rating

I'm soooo upset that 'Forever and Ever and Evie' is your last ever 'Stella Etc' book. I love them and can totally relate to Stella because two years ago I moved from Bedford (near London) to Somerset. I was also wondering where the 'Stella Etc' books were set, because I go to Watchet quite a lot and it totally fits the descriptions of Portbay...
From xxxgeorgiaxxx

EEEEEEEEE

Posted 22/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 2
rating

YOUR ALLY'S WORLD IS SO GROOVY. I HAVE READ UP TO THE LAST ONE, EXCEPT FOR NO 13. I REALLY WANT TO BE A WRITER WHEN I"M OLDER, SO READING YOUR BOOKS HAS BEEN GREAT COZ U ARE SO KWL. I KNOW THAT SOUNDS GUSHY BUT HEY, CAN'T YOU BE A BIT GUSHY AT TIMES? ;) WILL THERE BE ANOTHER ALLY'S WORLD BOOK? IF NOT MY LIFE'S HOPES WILL BE ABANDONED AND I WILL HAVE TO LIVE LIFE AS A MONK (OR NUN OR WHATEVER!!)
LOVE BECCA :C) :p:p:p XXX

Stuffness and things

Posted 22/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

This site is awesome 'coz it is filled with things and... erm... stuff(?). But all the stuff on here is full of wicked stuffness and want to see more of these things. Does that even make sense?
FROM KATIE

The long bracket...

Posted 22/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Just wanted to let u know that i absolutely love ur books... i think they're all fab (even the 1s i haven't read - but i haven't read them coz they're too old for me but when i am the right age which should be about 14-15-16 or so then i will read them as i lurve all of ur bookz... i am thinking that this is a v.long bracket...hmmm must end).
From Juwairiyya
p.s i've got a cat named Neo and he is bonkers... i didn't know cats can be so mad.
p.p.s take care and send my love to all of ur family (especially Colin, who does share a part in ur life)!!!!!!

I want Ally's pets!

Posted 09/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Recently i was set the task of doing a presentation on someone i admire, in English (the subject though, not the language. No wait, the language too - i'll shut up). Anyway, i wanted to say that my subject was you. Ally's World is quite literally the best series of books i have ever, EVER read! I always get jealous of how many pets Ally has; I've got NO pets! :( :( :( But, my substitute is coming onto your fab site and looking at cute pictures of cats!!!
Loadsa love, Ruthie/Roo/Ro or just plain Ruth x x x x x x x x x (*_*) (>_<) ($_$) (O_O) (:_:)

Now if I lived in Ally's World...

Posted 09/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

1. Go with Ally and her mates to a GVN or a GDVDN at Chloe's house (with a GOOD movie) 2. Go to Ally Pally with Ally Pally (& see Billy) 3. See all the pets and try and memorize all the names... 4. Dare myself to eat one of Rowan's meals (ewww) 5. Eat Linn's food (yum yum) 6. Go to the movies with Ally and Billy 7. Go to Ally's school and annoy the teachers (lots) 8. Tell Ally to stop worrying 9. Take out Ivy and the dogs for a walk 10. Get Rowan to give me a (very) mad makeover!
FROM MELANIE

Dr Who meets Ally's World!

Posted 09/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 2
rating

On Saturday I was watching a old Doctor Who. Don't know if you like it, but I love it. I love your books more of course. Anyway, the episode I saw was set in London, and to stop the wire (watch it if your curious, I don't have all day!) they have to climb Alexandra Palace! I was amazed that two of my favourite things in the world were put together!
Love you lots, BETH!

Books Around The World

Posted 09/03/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

After looking at the covers of your books from round the world, I really want to try and read ally's world in a different language (preferably french because i am ok at reading it), translate it and then read the english version and see how close i got!!!
FROM (a wierd language fanatic) PAIGE

Love the new website!

Posted 18/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

The new website is awesome - and you have lots of stuffness on it which I need to explore :p
I am so glad your books are so BIG now as well; I have been a fan of yours for like, years and years XD
Thankies! Gracie Slater xxxx

Where's my furry orange bundle?

Posted 17/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

I absolutely adore the Stella Etc series and I am really sad that it's over... I wanted it to continue forever and ever. I loved the last book, it featured my name! Well, my nickname (Evie). I really want Karen to do some follow ups about Stella, TJ, Rachel, Amber and Tilda (plus Frankie etc). They're really good characters... I love the fact that they're all different, but you can also relate to them all in different ways. Also... PEACHES! Duh, how can you talk about Stella etc without Peaches? I've got a crazy, devilish rabbit but he shows no trace of magical powers! So where is my furry orange bundle that will bring me mystic and magic? I am waiting...
LOL, FROM EVE

I want that cat

Posted 15/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

Just letting you know, I love Ally's world! And I want a Colin!!!
JOANNA

If I lived in Ally's World, I'd..

Posted 15/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

1. dare myself to have a makeover by Rowan (glitter included)
2. ask Tor to teach me the names of all the pets (including the stick insects)
3. go and eat Linn’s delish food
4. hang out with Ally in her bedroom
5. annoy Billy
6. take Ivy for a long walk
7. see the mutant daisies in Sandie’s bedroom
8. sing loudly in McDonalds with Kyra
9. tell Alfie I think he is drop-dead gorgeous
10. give Rolf and Winslet a bath, and groom Colin and co until they gleam!
FROM MILENA

Australia calling...

Posted 15/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 2
rating

I'm Alison and I live in Melbourne, Australia. I absolutely love the Stella Etc series - I bought two of the books when I was recently in London on holiday (during that 900 miles per hour storm that was happening... just my luck!). Speaking of my holiday, as well as London I also went to Tai Pei, America and Canada. In Tai Pei, I was in an earthquake; in Canada, I was in a fire alarm; in Orlando, I was in a shopping centre where there was a shooting.
Glad I had your books to cheer me up!
FROM ALISON

Me and Lemmie

Posted 12/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 5
rating

i love all of your many books, but i do have a favourite, and its "marshmallow magic and the wild rose rouge", but its not just because marshmallow is one of my favourite words (along with breeze and knees), its because i share a lot of the same experiences as lemmie, for instance; i was also bullied in primary school (my best friend turned on me) and i moved away and started a new life, a new school, and a new me and all is good now! i have a big bundle of friends that i know will be there for me. your book really steps into the fear and cruelness of being bullied. i thank you so much for writing it, and hope it opens many people's eyes. From: K

My gerbil - Mr Cheese - says hi...

Posted 12/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Hey Demi here! i have read ALL of the ALLY'S WORLD series except the last 3 (cry!) and most of the Stella Etc. Series which i love <3*_ me and my friends love your books (honest we DO). P.S. My gerbil Mr Cheese says hi (well, actually, he just squeaked - but i kind of guessed he said hi...)

Hi from Kyra!!

Posted 02/02/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 2
rating

omg,hello, my name is kyra, and i totally relate to her personality!! I get bored easily, and im daring, and i would get a kitten and run away to a party from my window! Kyra is my fave caracter and im sooo glad u used her name. my fave book of allys world as you can see is parties, predicaments, and undercover pets!!!!
Love (just like her) Kyraxxxx

Linnhe the chinchilla!

Posted 31/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

Bonjour! I'm writing from snowy, snowy France to say YOUR BOOKS RULE! Me and my chinchillas love them (well, the chins like eating them, actually) and I even named 4 out of my 6 chinchillas after characters in 'Ally's World' (Ally, Alfie, Linnhe and Tor). Oh, and I better mention the other two's names or they'll feel left out: Annunciata and Tiddles. Never stop writing!
Panda and the petz xxx

Hello from Amsterdam...

Posted 26/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

My name is Marina (13 years) and I live in the Netherlands, Amsterdam. My mother gave me one of your books called 'Dates, Double Dates and Big, Big Trouble'. I LOVE THAT BOOK!! Only the Dutch title of the book isn't correct: 'Zoenen, Vriendjes en ander Liefdesgedoe' translates as 'Kissing, Boyfriends and Other Romantic Stuff...'
Here in Amsterdam it's always cold! Well, most of the time. How is it to live in London? I would love to go one day to London.
I need to study Historie now so,
Greetings Marina
P.S. I'm sorry for the bad English!

History is funnier than you think!

Posted 09/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 5
rating

I read your book secretly in a history lesson last week, I didn't relise that my mate sitting next to me was reading it as well - suddenly, she laughed out loud and then I read the bit she did and I laughed out loud too! We had to stay in at lunch - but it was worth it!"
Leona

Mutant daisies rule

Posted 09/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

I've read every Ally's World book, like, a zillion times and my fave one would have to be...erm... it's a hard choice, but I'd probably choose 'Friends, Freak-Outs and Very Secret Secrets'. I'm even considering painting huge mutant daisies on my bedroom walls, just like Sandy!!! Loads + Loads = Loads of Love, Kate {11}

SHOCK!

Posted 09/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

I could not believe at the end of 'Hassles, Heart-Pings! and Sad Happy Endings'! I was so shocked I had to raid my secret stash of chocolate! THAT IS HOW SHOCKED I WAS! And a book has NEVER done that to me before.
Beth (Australia)

I can never wait...

Posted 09/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 1
rating

...for your books to come out! I'm very like Rowan and I love customising stuff. I'm always jazzing up my old boring clothes to make them more interesting. I want to go to art college, but I want to be a writer as well. I was amazed when I saw how many languages your books have been translated in to! This new website is really good. Anyway, I'm off to browse the rest!
Nicola

ure fab books

Posted 09/01/2007 Filed under Talk to me comments 0
rating

i gt interested in your fab books when i was shopping in whsmith an saw my name (karen) on the cover! it was colourful so i picked it up and im sooo glad that i did. my dad even reads your books!!! plz plz plz can u display this message so i can say hi 2 all ma m8s at emlyn secondary skool luvin i lol:) g2g an finish no. 10 of ure collection,Daisy, dad an the huge small surprise thnx luv Karen(same name!) xxx

(Sort of) smiley

Posted 11/12/2006 Filed under Talk to me comments 5
rating

Thought I’d let you know that I’m doing a report on you in my school newspaper (hope you don’t mind) and it’s going well (so far). Oh, I’ve got a really good (sort of) smiley you could use! (\ /) (0.o) (u u) By the way, I really love the word pernickety. Got to go for tea now - chicken pie! Yummy yum. Olivia (aged 11)

Ten things...

Posted 11/12/2006 Filed under Talk to me comments 4
rating

If I lived in Ally's World for a day, I’d… 1. ask Tor to teach me the names of all the pets (including the stick insects) 2. dare myself to have a makeover by Rowan (glitter included) 3.go and eat Linn’s delish yoghurts from the fridge 4.hang out with Ally in her bedroom, staring at the great view while telling her to stop worrying 5.snog Billy 6.take Ivy down the street and cuddle all the passing cats 7.see the mutant daisies in Sandie’s bedroom 8.sing loudly in KFC with Kyra 9.tell Alfie I think he is drop dead gorgeous 10.give Rolf and Winslet a bath, and groom Colin and co until they gleam! Aja

My biggest (three-legged) fan

Posted 05/12/2006 Filed under Talk to me comments 3
rating

Just writing to tell you about your biggest fan Pablo, the also three-legged cat. He likes to read your books with me (he turns the pages by himself, and leaves little claw holes) He's really shy, and it took me a couple of weeks (and 8 scratches) until he got used to me. Me and his owners (the lovely people next door) are the only ones he'll come to. My rabbit Daisy also likes your books (I read her a chapter every night) and she snuffles at the funny parts (or maybe it’s me).

Luv 'n' Hugz,

Katie of Durham (a fan of you and cheese)