Mary Hoffman, who lives near Carterton, made her name with the picture book Amazing Grace, published in 1991. She has written more than 90 books, including the Stravaganza series, whose fantasy world is based on real Italian towns, including Florence.

Her latest book, David, to be published by Bloomsbury on July 4, tells the story of the boy who modelled for Michelangelo’s statue. She will be at the Witney Book Festival on Sunday (Corn Exchange, 4pm).