 Liz Rettig, the author of hilarious books including MY DESPERATE LOVE DIARY, confides in YA Books Central during this interview. Find out why a publisher sent her roses, where she writes, how her dreams came true . . .and much more.
Did you always want to be a writer?
God yes, but for ages I did nothing as I didn’t have the confidence and getting published just seemed like an impossible dream.
What was your big break?
I mailed three chapters of my first teenage novel My Desperate Love Diary to around twenty agents and crossed my fingers. A few weeks later four of them contacted me wanting to know more! The wonderful Guy Rose took me on and next thing I knew Random House UK signed me and bought me a huge bouquet of roses. I’ve had another two books published since; My Now or Never Diary and Jumping to Confusions. I still think it’s a dream but when I pinch myself… yep there are my books in the stores nestling among proper famous writers’. I really am a published author – how lovely that sounds.
What is your working environment like?
A chaotic and cramped corner of my bedroom. Unaccountably my kids have refused to grant me the deference an author deserves and give up their rooms so I can commune with my writing muse in comfort.
What is your working style?
Totally disorganised … buy hey why change the habits of a life time.
Do you believe in outlining?
God no.
What is your goal as a writer?
To get the next novel finished. I’m only really happy once a piece of work is finished. Actually writing the thing is torture.
What's the best piece of advice you ever had on writing?
Insincerity stinks.
How much of your writing is based on your own experience as teenager?
Tons. Every excruciating, cringing moment.
What authors have influenced you the most?
Jane Austen, Sue Townsend, Marianne Keyes, Helen Fielding , Frank McCourt and oh gosh loads more.
How does your spouse/significant other feel about your writing career?
Dead chuffed and totally exasperated. Also hoping I’ll turn into the next JK Rowling and keep him in luxury for the rest of his life. Or at least buy the groceries occasionally.
What is your favorite word?
Serendipity.
What is your least favorite word?
Snotter (Scottish for the stuff that comes out your nose when you’ve got a cold)
Do you have any advice for young writers?
Read a lot. There may be good authors who haven't but I've never heard of them.
Daydream a lot. But not when crossing the road, sitting your math exam, or trying to apply eyeliner in a thin accurate line very close to your lashes.
Write a lot. Like most skills, writing well takes practice.
And finally don't be put off by rejections. They happen to all of us at times. Good luck!
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