Reading stars

The Deborah Ellis interview

What memories do you have of reading when you were a child?
Escaping into books, reading outside, reading during classes when I was supposed to be paying attention.

Why do you think it is important to help children with their reading?
The written word is a gift and when we help children read and write, we are passing on that gift. It allows us to talk with and listen to the whole history and future of humanity.

What would you say to a reluctant male reader of any age?
Don't be afraid. Give it a try. You will find a book that speaks to you and makes you stronger.

Where and when do you like to read?
When I'm travelling, or in bed, or on park benches, or in bank lines, or in the laundromat, or walking home from the library, or in a pub, or at a party...

Do you have a favourite out of the books which you have you written, and if so why?
A Company of Fools - just out this autumn in North America - it was very hard to write, but I think it's the best thing I've ever done.

If you weren't an author, what would you be?
I'd travel with a carnival. In fact, I still plan to do this. I still have a day job as a counsellor. I've had lots of jobs, including being the Easter Bunny for 3 weeks in a shopping mall.

What book or author has been most influential upon your writing?
Charles Dickens, Lewis Carroll, Simone de Beauvoir and E.B. White

Who do you admire?
Anyone who acts with courage, especially when they're afraid.

Which are harder to write: fantasy books or those based on real life?
Fiction takes more brain and heart work. Non-fiction takes more leg work. Both take a great deal of coffee!

What was the strangest place you ever stopped to read a book?
A graveyard in Moscow.

What is the best place you have ever been on holiday?
Blackpool, England. ABSOLUTELY the best place in the world. I hope to live and write there one day. BLACKPOOL FOREVER!

What advice would you give to a child who was interested in becoming an author?
Write, write, write, write, write and don't worry about writing something lousy. Keep writing and it will get better.