Okay, this one is a bit of a sob story, but I’ve been listening to my daughter talk about the cool kids this week and it sends a bit of a shiver down my spine. This is why:
When I started senior school I was so desperate to be friends with the ‘cool group’ that when they invited me to go see a movie with them I thought it was the most exciting thing ever! It would be the beginning of my new career as head of the school. The girls told me to meet them at the train station and which platform to go to.
I got there just in time to see them all laughing at me as they boarded a train on the opposite platform. This was one of my first experiences with nastiness. I was so embarrassed to go home and tell my mum that I went and saw a movie by myself. It all seems a bit silly now but it took many years before I ever told that story.
2. What is your nickname?
My husband calls me J, my friends call me Jess, and that’s about it these days.
My middle name is Louise so my Dad used to call me Lou or Louie the Fly when I was growing up – but not so much anymore.
3. What is your greatest fear?
That something could hurt or harm my children in any way.
4. Describe your writing style in ten words.
First person, character driven,high action with simple, deliberate words.
5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Fast-paced, emotional, researched, trusting (of reader).
6. What book character would you be, and why?
I wouldn’t mind being Hermione from Harry Potter. Let’s face it – she has some wicked skills and great mates.
7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
I’d go into the future – better forwards than back. Maybe just 20 or 30 years so I could see how the world is doing and also see how my kids have grown.
8. What would your ten-year-old self say to you now?
Why didn’t you become a vet? We had it all planned!
9. Who is your greatest influence?
My parents. They influenced the type of person I wanted to be and have become. That has then helped shape all aspects of my life. I’m very grateful to them.
10. What/who made you start writing?
Reading many great stories inspired me and lit a fire to tell my own. But really, I made myself start writing. It wasn’t a plan, it just happened.
11. What is your favourite word and why?
Must
A small word with great implication.
12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Impossible!!
But okay, I’ll try to give you an answer ;-)
I’m not overly religious and haven’t even read it in its entirety, but I’d probably consider the Bible. It’s a fantastic and large compilation of great stories.
Jessica Shirvington is the best-selling author of the Embrace series, Between the Lives and the Disruption series. Her latest book is the picture book Just the Way We Are, illustrated by Claire Robertson and published by ABC Books. Visit Jessica's website and Facebook page for more information about her books and author events.
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