This week “The People’s Friend” Writer Of the Week is Hazel Bateman. Hazel’s touching story, “Do You Remember?” is in Special 267 which is currently on sale.
Tell us about your story, “Do You Remember?”
A few years ago, walking with my husband on holiday in the Lake District, we overtook an elderly man making his way along Newlands Valley. He was clutching a bunch of flowers, which we thought rather odd. As we stopped for our spaniel to play in the river, he passed us, and not long afterwards, we saw rose petals floating downstream. It struck me as a lovely tribute. I turned this into the story “Do You Remember?” about the importance of making the most of time spent with loved ones and the value of those precious memories.
How long have you been writing fiction?
I’ve always made things up in my head but only started to write about six years ago when I set myself the over-ambitious challenge of writing a novel and quickly switched to short stories.
What authors do you admire?
Since trying to write, I have enormous admiration for all authors! Some of my favourites are Maeve Binchy, Jenny Colgan, Carole Matthews, Beth O’Leary and Sally Rooney. I love to read debut novels like Gail Honeyman’s “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” and have just enjoyed “The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers” by Samuel Burr.
What made you submit your story to the “Friend”?
I hoped “Do You Remember?” was a gentle, meaningful story that would appeal to “Friend” readers. I’ve made several unsuccessful submissions to “The People’s Friend”, so I was thrilled to have this accepted.
What are your future writing plans?
To keep writing and hopefully be lucky enough to have another story published in “The People’s Friend” and maybe one day finish that novel…
Thank you, Hazel, and good luck with your writing!
For exclusive and original fiction content, pick up a copy of “The People’s Friend” magazine every Wednesday, or take out a money-saving subscription.
Tracey Steel Having worked on a number of magazines over the years, I have found my perfect place on the “Friend” as I’m obsessed with reading and never go anywhere without a book! I read all of our stories with a mug of tea close by and usually a bit of strong cheese too!
