What is your most treasured possession?
Can that be plural? If so, I would say my photo albums. They hold so many memories, especially of my daughter growing up and our adventures with our three rescued retrievers, Luke, Zack and now Henry the hooligan.
When did you first start writing? What did you do before you were a published author?
I wrote poems and stories from an early age and started to do it seriously when I was studying for a degree in English and Drama. After working in theatre and journalism, I trained as a screenwriter and wrote for children’s TV. I also got involved in a musical theatre development group in London. An idea for a TV drama series was then optioned for production and when it didn’t go ahead, the producer suggested I write the book instead. So my first novel, Deeper Than Blue, started to take shape and was published in 2007. Happily, I am about to write my sixth book!
What inspired you to write Samphire Song?
Samphire Song undoubtedly has its roots in my early love of horses. The story has probably been waiting to escape for a long time! Memories of how a horse can be a soul mate are still very vivid. I wanted to explore that special bond from a teenager’s perspective and, as soon as Jodie took shape, I knew that the connection she would feel with Samphire would change her life, and his too.
Do you have any advice for readers who are hoping to follow in your footsteps?
I think if it’s in you to write, you will write. It’s a sort of natural compulsion. The good news is that, while publishing deals are always elusive, there are many markets out there for writing – and many ways to be a writer. The internet has opened up massive opportunities for people to reach an audience through personal websites, blogs and networking communities. Some publishers keep a close eye on the net for signs of talent!
There are creative writing courses and degrees up and down the country, which can inspire or maybe buy you the time to get your brilliant work finished. And there are lots of annual competitions to enter. So take a deep breath, begin, explore, develop, keep your spirits up (despite rejections), be exciting, brave, persistent and very flexible. Keep the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook by your side for advice, contacts in the industry and submission guidelines. And good luck!
Visit Jill’s website for lots more information
and news: www.jillhucklesby.com
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Also by Jill Hucklesby
‘A girl with such a name is on a journey. She will have adventures,’ my mother used to murmur in my ear.
And now I am on a journey. I’m running from something terrible – but I don’t know what. It’s like my brain has blocked it out. For now, I’m learning to survive: to break the System and not get caught. I’ve found a friend I can trust. Next stop, freedom. Somehow, somewhere . . .
If I Could Fly is a story you’ll never forget.
‘Extraordinary pace . . . exciting adventure’ Daily Mail
‘Haunting and magical’ Julia Eccleshare, Lovereading4kids
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