Justin Somper Interview

Justin Somper, author of the Vampirates series, answered some of my questions in 2005. He also sent the drawing you can see above.

What was your favourite book when you were a child?

1. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
2. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
3. The Riddle of the Boy Next Door by Enid Blyton
4. Absolute Zero by Helen Cresswell

Which of your books was the most difficult to write? Why?

Demons of the Ocean because I'd never written anything as long / complex before. You have to build up your 'writing stamina' as if you're training for a marathon!

How do you write your books? Do you plot and plan in detail, or do you develop an idea as you are writing?

I have a fairly detailed plan for the over-arching plot of the book and the sequence as a whole, but I definitely surprise myself along the way.

Why do you enjoy writing for children?

I think that kids make very attentive and challenging readers. They expect a strong story and convincing characters. I enjoy facing this challenge.

What advice would you give to young writers to help them improve thier stories?

1. Write more.
2. Read more (and more widely)
3. Try to get inside the head of your characters.
4. A bit of research goes a long way.
5. Invest in a good dictionary and thesaurus.