As part of our 150th celebrations, our contributors have been sharing their thoughts on what the “Friend” means to them.
Here, short story writer Rebecca Holmes tells us about her long history with our magazine . . .
My mother was an avid reader of “The People’s Friend”, so it seems fitting that my first ever story acceptance was from them.
Even after several years, I still love writing for the “Friend”. Reading its mix of stories and articles helps me unwind and escape into places where I like to be.
Not only that, but as a lifelong Dr Who fan, I was delighted when it was the only women’s magazine to feature the good Doctor on his 50th anniversary. All the facts were right, too. Even my husband was impressed!
But of course the “Friend” is famous for its fiction. The kind of stories that absorb and transport their reader, as all good fiction should.
Writing for the magazine makes you appreciate how much preparation the editors put into each issue.
“Friend” editors are a pleasure to work with — always approachable, as well as sometimes suggesting changes to improve a story. And usually turning out to be right!
The “Friend” itself is no stranger to change, adjusting with the times yet without losing the enduring qualities appreciated by its readers.
With all this, it’s not really a mystery why it’s lasted for 150 years.
Happy Anniversary, “The People’s Friend”. Here’s looking forward to many more to come.
See more 150th anniversary content here.
You can browse all our fabulous 150th Anniversary gifts at the DC Thomson Shop.
And don’t forget our fantastic 150th Fiction Special and “150 Years Of Christmas Cookery”.
Yvonne McKenzie I work on the Features team and admit to being nosy, so I love looking after the Between Friends letters and finding out all about our lovely readers. I also look after our health copy and enjoy writing about inspiring people that help make the articles in the magazine so interesting.
