Who was your childhood hero?
Growing up in South Africa in the 1980s, our choice of heroes was somewhat limited but, without a doubt, Anne of Green Gables was mine. She was sassy and brave and I too have red hair and desperately wanted it to be raven black!
What was your favourite book when you were younger?
Well, the Anne of Green Gables series would have to be top of the list. In my YA years, Dodie Smith’s I Capture the Castle and Barbara Trapido’s Brother of the More Famous Jack were favourites.
Did you read a lot as a child and do you still read children’s books now?
Yes, I read a lot but I was a rather lazy reader. My mum would try and get me to read historical or “improving” novels but I preferred Enid Blyton, Nancy Drew and then every Sweet Valley High I could get my hands on. I read lots of children’s books now, one of the joys of having your own children is discovering books together – and there are so many wonderful books around.
What was the last book you had recommended to you and what children’s book would you recommend to us?
Recently I’ve been reading all the shortlisted books for the Branford Bose prize – each of them is so different and so good.
From a reading and writing point of view, Meg Rosoff’s books are an inspiration. And I love Why We Took the Car by Wolfgang Herrndorf and think everyone should read it.
What advice would you give to your 13-year-old self?
Be bold. Love yourself and your weirdness. Good things do happen and are coming your way.
What would you be if you hadn’t been a writer? (and what have you been up to now?)
Oh dear, for a very long time I felt I had potential to be something, but I didn’t know what. I was a rather inefficient secretary for a while, and before that a really bad waitress. After I had my children I took up a part-time writing course and have been writing ever since. I recently completed a creative writing MA at Goldsmiths College and am due to start a PhD there in September.
If you could travel in time, where would you go first?
My ancestors left Scotland in the 1820s, looking to escape unemployment and poverty and make a life in South Africa. I find that time of mass migration fascinating – to leave your home and loved ones knowing you’ll never see them again, endure weeks at sea and find yourself on a continent so vastly alien to what you know. Of course, it’s a scenario many people are faced with today, but in terrible conditions and with scant hope.
What it’s like to win the Branford Boase with your debut Leopold Blue?
It is beyond exciting! I am completely blown away by the honour. One spends so much time with your characters when you’re writing a book that you become very attached to them. Peculiar as it sounds, I am just so proud that their story has been awarded this fantastic award.
