Here on the Fiction Team, we’re always reading…Not only your submissions but lots of stuff in our own time.
We’ve all got pretty diverse tastes, but reading is reading…and learning.
I’m a bit of a space geek, particularly the Apollo missions, and I’ve just finished reading the Neil Armstrong biography which is what the upcoming film First Man is based on. Neil could actually be a fictional hero in a novel. He was dedicated, intelligent, showed great integrity and bravery and was the ultimate professional.
Buzz Aldrin was more of an outspoken passionate man and Michael Collins was the one left alone in the Command Module while Neil and Buzz walked on the Moon. It reads like an adventure story!
Tracey gets Spacey
Space exploration also appeals to my sense of adventure and science. Who wasn’t on the edge of their seats during the Apollo 13 film? (The Apollo 13 book in my pile is on loan from My Weekly Ed, Stuart!) If Apollo 13 had been a work of fiction, you would have thought it was too far-fetched.
The astronauts also have the ultimate back-up team in Mission Control. They all work together to make sure everything comes together perfectly…a bit like the PF team putting together your magazine. There’s a lot of hard work, camaraderie, a little stress but real dedication here in the office.
Reading non-fiction books also gives you an insight into the politics and events of that time, as well as handy knowledge when you’re playing Trivial Pursuit, watching Only Connect or University Challenge!
Our Lucy is the history geek in the office and her knowledge is second to none when we need a year or a fact in one of our period stories. This also gives us a more rounded view when we read submissions. We really keep an open mind as our reading is always fresh as we indulge in all sorts of fiction and non-fiction books.
Over and out!
Read Angela’s latest book review
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!
