This week we’re chatting to debut author Janice Lane whose fun story “A Bundle Of Laughs” is in our issue currently on sale.
Tell us about your story, “A Bundle Of Laughs”.
After losing a long-time loved one, or just going through a ‘rough patch’, many people lose that spontaneous spark of enjoyment, and sometimes even feel guilty for appearing to be happy. Something as simple as a good laugh (for no particular reason) can be a great medicine – and it’s free, and readily available. Maybe reading this story might give inspiration to seek out a laughter club. They exist all over the world, even online.
Have you ever tried anything similar yourself?
I go to a laughter class every Saturday morning. This is where I got my inspiration for the story. It’s great to see everyone’s mood brighten from before class to after class. I’ve been doing laughter yoga for ten years, eight of those as a leader of the class. I am grateful for the many friends I’ve made through laughter yoga, and we are often heard making laughter chaos when out together.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for 30 years – or longer if I count the stories I wrote at school. I love working with words and particularly enjoy rhyme and creating acrostic poems.
Who are some of your favourite authors?
Some great authors I’ve enjoyed reading lately are Maeve Bincchy, Julia Quinn and Joan Jonker. But I also love a good biography.
What made you send a story to the “Friend”?
I like reading the “Friend” and have done so for a very long time. The stories published are both the type of stories I like to read and love to write.
What advice would you give someone trying to find writing success with us?
If you enjoy the writing experience, keep at it. Persevere. I like to think that each rejection I had, even though it hurt, helped me refine and improve my writing.
Thank you, Janice!
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!
