Megara’s Magic School

Hi-Jinx Herald Newsroom

Special Feature: Bringing Megara to life – click here.

Author interview:

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

When I was very little. I’d fill notebooks with stories when I was 6 – it’s one of my earliest memories. And I loved reading stories long before that!

How long does it take you to write a book?

It really depends on the book! Megara’s Magic School actually came to me really quickly and I wrote it while I was in bed with my daughter sleeping next to me by the light of my phone!

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I am obsessed with character names! I make lists of character names and baby names 😂 I love the podcast Baby Name Envy and SJ Strum’s YouTube channel for inspiration.

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

Mostly thin air – you never know when inspiration will strike! But I’m also a lover of learning and reading which I think always sparks ideas and gets you curious. Curiosity is the key to creativity for me!

When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote stories and “books” all the time as a child. I think I wrote my first longer novel when I was around 14.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I have a daughter who keeps me very busy 🤪 and I love reading to her, walking and exploring with her, playing games with her… but for me, I love movement, especially boxing! I also love drinking tea, reading…

What does your family think of your writing?

My husband and daughter are very supportive and encouraging. They’re my test readers 🥰

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Sometimes ideas and characters surprise you! They have a life of their own, and it’s about uncovering what they want to happen sometimes, which can take the book in a completely different direction that you expected.

Do you have any suggestions to help someone become a better writer? If so, what are they?

My best advice is stop worrying about “better” for now, and focus on enjoyment and practice. You’ll hone your ideas and style and voice just by getting experimental with it and lots of practice!

Do you like to create books for adults too?

I do! I’m not working on any right now – having my little girl changed my focus more to children’s literature but never say never!

What do you think makes a good story?

Imagination. Curiosity. Connection.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

Always a writer. And how lucky am I now?! 🍀

Interview with Megara coming soon!

Write to us below, ask any questions or even send in your stories!