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On The Table Read, “the best book magazine in the UK“, children’s book author Sarah T Wright talks about the inspiration behind her Christmas book for children, Anna’s F-Plan.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Sarah T Wright about her life and career, what inspired her to start writing, and the story of her new Christmas book for children, Anna’s F-Plan.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
I’m a photographer, with a passion for art, art history and animals. I love to go walking and running.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
I’ve always wanted to write. I remember saying in primary school that I wanted to write books when I grew up. It’s taken a long time, but I’ve finally grown up!
When did you take a step to start writing?
I have spent a lifetime telling family, friends and anyone else who would listen that I was going to be an author, but I didn’t actually sit down and seriously try to write until I moved back home from Spain some ten years ago.
How long did it take to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
It took me three years, from the time I first started to write ‘Anna’s F-Plan’ until its release this October. I started before lockdown and then, unlike every other author on the planet, I stopped writing during that time.
What made you want to write Anna’s F-Plan?
I remember having the idea for a humorous story about angels whenever I was in high school. So, the seed of this story has been there for a very long time.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Anna’s F-Plan?
Overcoming self-doubt and having faith in myself. Ironically, it was a theme of the book.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
I visualise what I write, so I was channelling my inner Sandra Bullock in Miss Congeniality when I was writing Anna’s character.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
I’ll go back to Hollywood for Holly’s character. I imagined a mix of Melissa McCarthy and Rebel Wilson’s wit in the comic interactions with Anna. Leonardo’s character on the other hand was inspired by love of Renaissance art.
What is the main conflict of Anna’s F-Plan?
Anna Frost was a lieutenant in Heaven’s army. It was her life, so to speak, but it’s not until she has a life, that she begins to question what it is she really wants.
Did you plot Anna’s F-Plan in advance or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
I sat down, with a new notebook, pen in hand at a table in the library and waited to see what happened. After a few days of doodling, staring out the window at the traffic passing by and praying for divine inspiration, Anna marched onto the page wielding a rather large sword. She led, I followed, and the story flowed.
Did you get support with editing and how much editing did Anna’s F-Plan need?
This was my first book, so I had no idea what the editing process involved. I thought I had done a pretty good job editing my book until my editor informed me otherwise! I used a lot of informal writing out of speech to convey the humour and song lyrics in some comic scenes, but she pointed out that was wrong, so a few chapters had to be re-written. It was a valuable learning process.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give anyone inspired to write a story?
Don’t let fear hold you back. Believe in yourself, in your story. Have faith and just do it.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you are planning to write?
I have started working on my second book that centres on Leonardo and his story.
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment?
Absolutely! I feel a great sense of achievement that I’ve finally realised my dream to write a book.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
You can purchase Anna’ F Plan from Waterstones | Foyles | Amazon | Cranthorpe Millner
Sarah T Wright
Anna’s F-Plan
Instagram: sarahtwrightauthor
Facebook: Sarah T Wright
Twitter: @sarahtwright
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