Our writer of the week is Sally Waterbury.
You can read her humorous debut story ‘Teatime Treats’ in our weekly issue out on Wednesday 22 June 2022.
Can you tell us what inspired your brilliant debut story, ‘Teatime Treats’?
I have a friend who is a fabulous baker and also a dog lover. She bakes for her dogs and her dog biscuits always look amazing. I’ve often wondered what they might taste like. If they are anything like her bakes for humans they must be delicious.
I don’t think she’s ever mixed them up but I was thinking about what it might be like if there was a muddle.
Have you always wanted to be a published author? When did you start writing?
I’ve always loved storytelling and have been writing on and off forever. Being published is a nice bonus.
What attracted you to submit your stories to “The People’s Friend”?
I love the idea that “The People’s Friend” has been giving pleasure to readers for generations.
I’ve had so much joy from reading so it’s great to be able to be part of something which touches so many people’s lives in such a positive way.
Which part of writing a story do you enjoy best?
I spend more time thinking than writing. The mulling over before putting pen to paper, the possibilities of where a story might go is very enjoyable.
Although, when I do start to write, the story usually ends up in a completely different place from where I was expecting it to go.
Who is your favourite author and why? If you could ask them a question, what would it be?
It’s difficult to pick a favourite. I’ll read anything and my favourites wax and wane.
I’ve recently been re-reading the American author Anita Shreve, who died in 2018. I love the way she deals with relationships and the emotional engagement between people.
I guess I’d ask her how she manages to find so many new angles on the way people deal with each other.
We’re halfway through the year already! What’s the best book you’ve read in 2022 so far?
That’s a tough question too. I very much enjoyed “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Set in Hollywood, very glamorous and good fun.
What’s your top tip for aspiring “Friend” writers?
Don’t give up! It can be hard to believe in yourself. Persistence is the key.
Read more interviews with our writers here.
Abigail Phillips Abbie is the newest member of the fiction team at the "Friend." She loves how varied the role is - every day is different and there is always a new story to read. She is keen to work closely with established writers and discover new writers, too.
