Samantha Lewis Interview | The Rebel Reading Society

Author Interview: Samantha Lewis

We had an opportunity to chat with Samantha Lewis, author of Elements of the Day. Read our interview with her, below:

1. When did you decide that you wanted to become an author?

I’ve been thinking about ideas for children’s science books ever since I was teenager – but I didn’t get round to putting anything in writing until the covid lockdowns.

2. Did you read lots as a child - if you did, where did you mainly read? If you didn't, what was the reason?

I loved reading as a child and read everything from magazines and comics to Choose Your Own Adventures and
murder mysteries.

3. What was your favourite book as a child and why?

The Jolly Postman. I just LOVED reading other people’s post – and I thought it was so clever and well put together. I enjoyed reading all the different communication styles – from the very formal solicitor’s correspondence (for the Big Bad Wolf) to the comically persuasive marketing leaflet sent to a witch!

4. How does it feel to see your books in shops and being sold?

I still can’t quite believe it – it’s such an enormous privilege and I feel very proud. It’s a particular joy to see my kids looking for it when we go into a bookstore.

5. What is the best part about being an author?

Writing! I love the process – it’s so much fun. It’s delightful to see the designs and illustrations as they develop, bringing the words to life in ways I’d never have imagined.

6. What are the "not so fun bits" in being an author?

Admin! Even organising a school visit can mean a lot of time emailing back and forth to sort out logistics – and that can be a bit of a bore.

7. Why do you think it is important for children to read?

I think it’s important for children to discover how powerful books can be. They’re such a brilliant way to access information, discover new worlds and perspectives and exercise your imagination. You never know how what you read is going to change the way you think about things or how you see the world – and I just love that it’s all there
on the pages, waiting for you explore.

8. What is the inspiration for your books and writing?

I write non-fiction science books. Since the truth is always stranger than fiction, I’m lucky enough to have all the
weird and wonderful stories from the world of science (and the history of science) as my inspiration.

9. Who gives you feedback on your drafts and how do you act on the feedback?

My brilliant editor – who is usually desperate for me to cut down my word count. I do my best to comply – the end result is always much better for it. Every now and then I will make a case for keeping in a joke – and I think she does her very best to accommodate!

10. Finally, if you could read for an hour, on your own, anywhere in the world - where would it be?

It’s a bit of a cliché, but I love reading on a beach with the sounds of the sea in the background. I grew up in Hove – so the beach there would be just fine, though I’d settle for somewhere a little more exotic if I really had to!