Author Q&A – Lisa Thompson

22 Jun Author Q&A – Lisa Thompson

When did you first know you were a writer?

I think I was around 9 years old. I started a book about a girl who rescued horses and I was utterly transported into another world – a world that I was in control of! I loved the swept-away feeling it gave me and I distinctly remember thinking, maybe one day I’ll be an author?

What inspired you to write The Goldfish Boy/What is your favourite part of the book?

I love stories where something extraordinary happens in an ordinary setting and I really wanted to write something where the main character was restricted in some way.  The OCD angle came along after I’d seen a documentary about how debilitating it could be. I went on to research more and talk to experts and then I became passionate that I wanted other people to see what an awful condition it can be.  I also love stories where an inanimate object can feel like a character, so that’s where the Wallpaper Lion comes in! The book actually started out as a short story, but I found Matthew’s voice very easy to write and compelling so I decided to expand it into a novel.  My favourite part of the book is Chapter 31. I won’t say what happens or I’ll give it away!

Share an interesting experience you’ve had with one of your readers.

My readers AMAZE me. The main character in my third book, The Day I Was Erased, is called Maxwell and a boy once asked if he’s the baby that is mentioned (in one sentence) towards the end of The Goldfish Boy. I completely forgot I’d used the name already! I wish it was the same person, but it wasn’t.

How would you describe your writing style in three words?

Contemporary, twisty, subtle.

What is the best advice you’ve received?

Stop talking about it and start.

What are you reading?

I’m reading The Butterfly Circus by Francesca Armour-Chelu.  It’s fabulous!

What are you working on now?

I’m editing my fourth book for Scholastic that will be out in January 2020.  Unfortunately, I can’t tell you a title yet!  When those latest edits are in I’ll be working on another novella with Barrington Stoke which will come out next year. My short book with them, Owen And The Soldier, is out now!

A very special thank you to Lisa Thompson! To learn more about Lisa’s writing visit www.lisathompsonauthor.com.