Nicola Young

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?


Time School: We Will Remember Them is the first in a series of four. It's a time-travelling adventure that takes four children on a journey of discovery to learn about life in their town and school during different time periods. This story was inspired by the idea of an old building having lived through so many lives and changes in the world and its surroundings. I thought, "if only it could talk, and tell us what it's seen." But of course, walls don't speak, so I had to dream up my own stories instead.


Do you have any unusual writing habits?


Not unusual, but I can write anywhere and I often get up really early to write, when no one else is awake and it's still dark. It's eerily quiet in the house, as if there's only me there, which I like because it means no distractions.


What authors, or books have influenced you?


My favourite authors growing up were Roald Dhal, Enid Blyton and Judy Blume. Their styles of writing differ, but I loved Roald's sense of fun, Enid's wonderful way of incorporating food into her stories and Judy's ability to tackle real-life issues.


What are you working on now?


I'm working on the third book in the Time School series.

Do you have any advice for new authors?


Practice, practice, practice. Read widely, join a writing group, accept criticism and keep at it.


What is the best advice you have ever heard?


I learned some valuable lessons in story structure from someone who is a specialist in screen writing. 


What are you reading now?


I'm currently reading 'City of Girls' by Elizabeth Gilbert.


What's next for you as a writer?


Next year, Time School: We Will Remember Them, is being re-published with Hashtag Press, followed by book two, Time School: No Going Back, in June.