Author Interview: Litty Williams
We had an opportunity to chat with Litty Williams author of People's Choice. Read our interview with her, below:
1. When did you decide that you wanted to become an author?
I don’t remember deciding! I’ve just always written. At school if there was a choice between writing a story or poem or doing some ‘real work’ I always went for the writing option. My first proper novel was when I was about 11 years old. It was called Four Together and I even illustrated it myself.
2. Did you read lots as a child - if you did, where did you mainly read? If you didn't, what was the reason?
Yes I did. Loads and loads and loads. I used to go my local library a couple of times a week and get four books out each visit. I also loved comics like Judy and my brother’s Beano and Commando comics. Basically, I read anything I could get my hands on.
3. What was your favourite book as a child and why?
The Magician’s Apprentice was the first Narnia book I read. I vividly remember picking it off the library shelf and being intrigued, and then reading it while walking home, and being transported from suburbia into this amazing story world. Bliss.
4. How does it feel to see your books in shops and being sold?
Just amazing! I feel so grateful to everyone who has bought or borrowed my books. And to the booksellers and librarians who chose them for their shelves. The first time I signed copies in a bookshop I admit I did shed a little tear.
5. What is the best part about being an author?
Oooh! So many good parts. The actual writing is hard work but so satisfying. I love plotting and giving characters the space to become themselves. I love getting feedback and reviews. And I love talking to readers about my books. Also, I love school visits and sharing my enthusiasm for books.
6. What are the "not so fun bits" in being an author?
Not being able to write fast enough to get all my ideas on the page or screen. Grrr! Apart from that the most frustrating thing is juggling the writing with doing social media and then real life stuff. There’s not enough time for everything. (Especially not doing the housework :) .)
7. Why do you think it is important for children to read?
The sheer joy of being caught up in an amazing adventure or experiencing the life of a main character. Bliss! With my adult hat on I say it’s so important that we learn that we are all different and all important.
8. What is the inspiration for your books and writing?
I write about themes that I feel strongly about, like the pressure my kids felt at school, and the way society has become less tolerant. But then the books themselves come from characters who live in my head and won’t let me rest until I tell their stories.
9. Who gives you feedback on your drafts and how do you act on the feedback?
I belong to a writing group where the members are both generous and brutally honest in their feedback – and I love them. And I have an editor who is very savvy; her praise and her guidance are so important. I think all feedback is a gift, and I love making my stories as strong as they can be.
10. Finally, if you could read for an hour, on your own, anywhere in the world - where would it be?
In my garden on a sunny day, with my cat, Lucy, lying nearby.
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