Our Writer of the Week is Sue Cook. Sue’s story, “Some Day My Prince Will Leave”, appears in Special 236, on sale now.
“Some Day My Prince Will Leave” is a magical, feel-good story. Where did the idea come from?
Before I was first published, I attended a workshop where we were asked to think up ideas for Xmas stories. Someone suggested a pantomime setting, and it stuck with me.
It was only about five years before I asked myself what it would be like to kiss the man of your dreams on stage every day.
The narrator is smitten with her Prince Charming from the start. Do you think there is such a thing as love at first sight?
Infatuation at first sight – yes. Love, I think, comes later.
Are you a fan of pantomimes? If so, what do you like about them?
Oh my word, yes! The silliness; the different levels of humour – simple wordplays for the children and naughty double-entendres for the adults etc. Also, the audience participation. I’m like a kid again.
You have a high strike rate of stories appearing in the “Friend”. Do you feel the magazine complements your writing style?
To a certain extent, yes. Although I write slowly, I have plenty of time to make my stories the best they can be.
What was the last book you read that captivated you?
“Wilding” by Isabella Tree. It completely changed my understanding of modern farming and conservation. I’m very big on ecology and saving the natural world.
What are your writing plans for 2023?
To finish the serial I’m writing for “The People’s Friend”, self-publish all my pocket novels, finish another pocket novel. And write a few more short stories, of course.
Notebook and pencil or laptop? Kitchen table or study? Blank wall or inspiring view?
PC on my desk in my study at Cook Towers. It’s facing a blank wall, with the view of our pond behind me as I’m easily distracted. And definitely no music.
P.S., What’s your one top tip for aspiring writers?
Network! I resisted this for years as I’m an introvert, but I have learned so much from other writers in my field. You can’t buy that sort of help and support.
Alan Spink I am a member of the “Friend” Fiction Team. I enjoy working closely with writers and being part of the creative process, which sees storytelling ideas come to fruition. A keen reader, I also write fiction and enjoy watching football and movies in my spare time. My one tip to new writers is “write from your imagination”.
