Award-winning author Kate Atkinson has 15 books to her name. Her latest novel, Death At The Sign Of The Rook, which features detective Jackson Brodie, is out now.
When and how do you write?
I write on my sofa with my feet up.It bears no resemblance to a study. In the past, if I’ve been very stuck, I’ve checked into a hotel; it definitely focuses the mind.
Do you have a favourite place to write?
It’s all about being somewhere comfortable for me.
Do you have any routines or rituals that help you write?
No, but I wish I did.
How much of a book do you plot before you start?
The title, the beginning and the end, and then it’s straight out of the traps. I spend quite a lot of time on characters’ names, though. The bit in the middle is the most interesting; it’s what gets me up in the morning. Characters do that clichéd thing of arriving fully formed out of nowhere. I love characters – even the minor characters who come in and say one line. And dogs – because life is full of minor characters and dogs!
What do you find most challenging as a writer?
Writing!
What do you do when you’re stuck?
Try to dream about it. That doesn’t usually work, though. I find it’s good todisengage rather than fretting.
What would you say to someone who’s struggling to get started?
Oh, lord, it’s so much more difficult these days. Perseverance, I think. That’s my motto anyway.
What’s your number-one piece of advice?
Read everything ever written. How else do you know what’s good?
If you love reading, our new VIP book club is for you! Every month, Good Housekeeping VIP Members can enjoy a free e-book download of our Book Club book of the month and meet the author of the month at a live event. For access to exclusive content, events, discounts and freebies, as well as the chance to be a VIP product tester, become a member today HERE.
