Yvonne Frederick is our Writer Of The Week. Her emotional story, “Sky Watching”, appears in this week’s issue.
We spoke to her about her writing . . .
Tell us where the idea for “Sky Watching” came from?
Hearing a woman at my local supermarket complaining that she couldn’t get the right peach coloured toilet rolls for her bathroom made me wonder how much an obsession with colour matching could affect someone’s life. And “Sky Watching” finally emerged . . .
How long have you been writing fiction?
I’ve been scribbling down stories for as long as I can remember, but I started to take it more seriously after retiring from work, nearly thirteen years ago.
That’s when I joined a creative writing class.
Who are your favourite authors?
I enjoy anything Joanne Harris of “Chocolat” writes, and Rosie Thomas’ books have such strong female characters in really unusual settings, which I love reading.
For totally absorbing crime fiction I don’t think you can beat Ian Rankin and his Rebus series.
What are your writing ambitions?
I’m very happy writing short stories, and still get a thrill from seeing one of mine printed in “The People’s Friend”. But to have a book of my short stories published would be really fantastic.
Notebook and pencil or laptop? Kitchen table or study? Blank wall or inspiring view?
I spend a lot of time either walking or gardening; perfect for thinking and working on my ideas for stories.
Once the characters and/or plot are firmly fixed in my mind (which can take days, weeks or months) I sit at my ancient desktop and start writing.
My PC is upstairs, right next to a window. And as I live very close to a main road there’s always lots going on that often distracts, but occasionally inspires.
What’s your top tip for an aspiring Writer Of The Week?
Writing can be a lonely occupation, and joining a creative writing group is not only vital for learning about the art of writing and bouncing ideas around with other like-minded people, it also helps dispel any feelings of isolation.
My top tip for anyone who aspires to being a published author is to believe in his or her abilities and never give up.
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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!
