Paul Stewart Interview

Paul Stewart, co-creator of the Edge Chroncles, answered some of my questions in 2005.

What was your favourite book when you were a child?
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

Which of your books was the most difficult to write?
Midnight Over Sanctaphrax. I wanted the storm to revealed through the book little by little, and it didn't work. So I re-wrote it all.

Which of your characters is most like you?
Cowlquape - brave, loyal, intelligent...

How do you write your book? Do you plot and plan in detail, or do you develop an idea as you are writing?
Both - plus, because the Edge Chronicles books are written with Chris Riddell we spend hours talking about the plots and characters.

Why do you enjoy writing for children?
Because children are such demanding readers - they won't tolerate boring bits!

What advice would you give to young writers to help them improve their stories?
Read them out loud to a friend. If the friend is gripped and doesn't yawn, you're doing something right!