There’s a special ‘lucky’ dance I do before submitting a manuscript. Doesn’t matter where I am, or who I’m with – the dance is on.
2. What is your nickname?
Claire Bear or CB. My Boost Juice/ Starbucks name is Katy as Claire often causes confusion. I think it’s my English accent!
3. What is your greatest fear?
Snakes. We had a Blue Tongue in the garden recently. I ran around the deck with a pair of binoculars screaming, ‘snake! snake!’ I’m sure the neighbours had a good laugh.
4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Remarkable true stories filled with heart, to empower and inspire.
5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Driven, passionate, inspired, impatient, hopeful.
6. What book character would you be, and why?
Roald Dahl’s Matilda Wormwood, the ultimate bookworm! As a kid, I loved pretending I was Matilda. I’d borrow library books and stack them by my bed in tall, wonky towers. Then I’d slowly devour them by torchlight! Those were the days.
7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
Imagine witnessing Martin Luther King’s ‘I Have A Dream’ speech in Washington, 1963? That would be incredible. I might quickly pop into 2013 and tell myself, ‘Don’t date him, Claire!’
8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
You achieved everything we dreamed of. Well done! Also, why do you go to bed so early? You’re an adult – stay up as late!
9. Who is your greatest influence?
Anyone who is driven to follow their dreams. I love writing true stories about amazing kids to empower and inspire. The children I write about have a drive, passion an purpose that is truly inspirational.
10. What/who made you start writing?
My love of stories and storytelling. I love the idea of capturing amazing stories to be enjoyed for years to come!
11. What is your favourite word and why?
As a writer, for me, the beauty of language lies in its diversity. So, of course, I love all words! If I had to choose one – it might be ‘love’. Heart-warming, courageous and comforting!
12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. It’s my grandma and mum’s favourite book. I grew up with it. My mum’s name is ‘Anne with an e’ after Anne Shirley! A great book for a family of strong women – I can’t wait to share with my daughters.
Claire is an Australian children’s author with a passion – and nose – for sniffing out true stories to empower and inspire. Driven by her background in journalism, real people with extraordinary tales sit at the heart of Claire’s books. Claire’s debut picture book, Lily The Inventor, is out with Redback Publishing. For more information, see www.clairethompsonbooks.com.
