Faye Scavone
asked
Helen Simonson:
As a child were you writing short stories? Finding yourself with ideas about books. Did you have a favorite author?
Helen Simonson
Dear Faye, I did write stories and little newspapers when I was a child. But mostly we were a family of readers. My most treasured childhood books were Little Women and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. But I also loved any adventure story - from Swallows and Amazons to Swiss Family Robinson to Enid Blyton's Famous Five series. To read was to have have freedom, adventures, and sometimes a little money and a bag of sweets in one's pocket. But writers were put on such a pedestal in my home, that I never thought I could be one. When it came time to 'grow up' and go to college my parents encouraged me to get a 'real' job and I don't think they were wrong. I have the greatest respect for being able to pay my own rent and bills! But I was always writing - even in my corporate advertising jobs. And I'm glad I get to be an author now. I think it shows we can all have many adventures in our long lives.
More Answered Questions
Janet
asked
Helen Simonson:
My book club read Major Pettigrew when we first started a about 3 years ago. Last month we read The summer Before the War. Our book club had such a great discussion. You tell such wonderful stories. I have loved both books. How do you come up for the idea for your books? Do you enjoy writing in that era? I'm looking forward to your next book.
Leanne Thomas
asked
Helen Simonson:
I absolutely loved this book. I listened to it on a car trip. I fell in love with Major Pettigrew and Ali. My favorite quote: "We do what we can. The rest is God's problem." I've added it to my 7th step prayer I read every morning. Thank you for writing this inspiring and absorbing book. I really just wanted to thank you and acknowledge you for that. But this comment must have a question mark, so here it is…? :)
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