Meet the author: Gail Aldwin

Hello, readers! Today I have another author interview that I think you’ll enjoy. Gail Aldwin is a lovely writer and a gracious, kind person. Her debut The String Games was a finalist in The People’s Book Prize and the Dorchester Literary Festival Writing Prize 2020. Her second contemporary novel This Much Huxley Knows uses a young narrator to shine a light upon the follies of adults. I highly enjoyed This Much Huxley Knows (it reminded me a bit of Frederik Backman novels, but with a lighter tone). 

 

What are your favorite and least favorite parts of the writing process?

I find the first draft of any project a real struggle. It’s easy to be intimidated by a blank page, but once I get going, I can bash out a good chunk of text at each sitting. The fun starts with the redrafting process. I love adding texture to a narrative by drawing upon the senses and using figurative language. 

Did you always want to be a writer?

As a child I was educated for work and then marriage although in my case I rebelled and went travelling. I didn’t acquire qualifications for university entrance until my mid-twenties and while I undertook some creative writing studies as part of my undergraduate degree, it wasn’t something I pursued again until much later when my children were less demanding of my time and attention. 

Do you have a typical writing routine?

On weekday mornings I join Writers’ Hour, a Zoom call hosted by London Writers’ Salon. The session attracts writers from around the world where we spend undistracted time focusing on our own projects. Once I’ve made a start with my writing, I tend to continue for a further hour or two until the demands of life kick in.

What kind of books do you gravitate toward in your own reading life?

I read a lot of debut novels to support writers entering the publishing world. I also follow the writing progress of those I know through social media. I enjoy reading across genres although I’m not keen on science fiction or horror.

Tell us about someone who has inspired you creatively.

I write short plays and comedy sketches collaboratively with two women writers who live in my home county of Dorset. I’ve learnt so much from my co-writers. I doubt I would ever have considered including humour in my novels if it wasn’t for them.

What is your (non-writing) superpower?

Oh Lord, I’m not sure I have one. I do run every week and go on long walks to find inspiration, does that count?

What is one of the best pieces of advice you’ve ever gotten?

Always end things carefully, whether it be the final pages of a novel, the break-up of a relationship or even terminating a service. A proper goodbye leaves the chance of a fresh start and a new hello.

Thank you, Gail, for your participation! You can connect with Gail online, and do be sure to check out her work.

Twitter:     https://twitter.com/gailaldwin

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/gailaldwinwriter/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gailfaldwin/

Blog:

https://gailaldwin.com

Next month will be the last installment of this author interview series. I hope you’ve enjoyed it! I’m sure it will make a reappearance, because I love the excuse to talk to other writers. Until next time!