I have a few different public identities, which this website embraces. Read more about my background and work in these areas.
On this site I publish new writing and research, but it also functions as an archive, providing easy access to articles published over the last 20 years, sometimes with annotations in cases where my views have changed since.
Books
My latest novel
Snow on the Danube
A historical adventure evoking Budapest during and between two great wars, recounted in the voice of a fussy hypochondriac who becomes an unlikely and compromised hero when the Fascists take over. An unlikely comedy, a document of filial love and a compelling portrait of the horrors of war
FGI publishing
I have also published my own books and other people’s under the imprint of FGI Publishing.
I have sold 40,000 copies of my books over the span of my self-publishing career (to June 2024). The vast bulk of these have been study guides I’ve written on classic novels such as The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, and Jane Eyre.
Recent work
My recent output has involved helping my students and communities learn to be creative researchers:
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Reimagining the Future of Publishing: Five Observations on YA, Pedagogy, and Digital Literature
In this blog, I explore how contemporary YA literature acts as both a cultural mirror and a critical tool—reflecting the world young people live in while helping them make sense of it. Drawing on Suico et al.’s content analysis and Warner’s ideas about literature as ritual, I look at how YA fiction engages with themes like trauma, justice, and identity. I also consider the growing academic interest in YA and what this means for classrooms today. Ultimately, the blog reflects on how YA can offer not just stories, but space—for reflection, resistance, and hope.
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The perils and pleasures of creative writing competitions and prizes: 5 key points
Prizes often symbolize external recognition, but what if I reimagined them as personal milestones—self-awarded markers of creativity, persistence, and growth? In this blog, I explore how literary prizes shape careers and confidence while offering five strategies to navigate competitions and create personal benchmarks. I introduce ‘internal prizes’—small yet meaningful ways to celebrate achievements, from finishing a tough draft to inspiring students. Drawing on insights from Kei Miller, Kristin Neff, and literary organizations, I invite you to rethink success and resilience. Prizes have power, but they don’t define your worth. Honour your journey—on your terms.
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Only Connect: Creative Writing Comes Alive at the British Library
Only Connect: Creative Writing at the British Library was a vibrant and inspiring event that brought together twenty creative minds to explore the power of writing. Led by MA Creative Writing and Education students from Goldsmiths, participants engaged in a carousel of interactive workshops, each designed to spark creativity and deepen connections with the British Library’s collection. From crafting dialogues with historical figures to exploring the sensory world of smells and sounds, the event encouraged new ways of seeing, hearing, and feeling stories. Attendees left feeling inspired, with many calling for more in-depth sessions. Want to be part of the next one? Stay tuned for future creative writing events at www.francisgilbert.co.uk!
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Creative writers and marketing: some thoughts and observations
Marketing isn’t just about selling books—it’s about finding the right readers, refining your creative process, and sharing your work with confidence. In this blog, we explore marketing in the publishing industry through the lens of the writer as a healer, teacher, researcher, and reflective practitioner.
Resources for teachers, educators and more
As a teacher and now as a teacher-educator and Head of the MA Creative Writing and Education at Goldsmiths, I have devised many recent resources for teachers, to help them teach the subject of English and creative writing. I also write fiction and reviews of books I like.
Where else to find me
My YouTube channel contains videos I’ve made for my students over the years. I’ve also run a number of topic- and book-specific educational blogs and websites as resources for students and teachers. Since 2015, I have focused upon publishing academic articles, many of which can be found on my Goldsmiths’ webpage. The contact page has my email and social media links.