Allan Burnett
What made you start writing?
My first scribble happened because I was very young, and there was this
huge blank wall and a box of crayons. When my parents saw it I soon
suffered for my art, but I wasn't put off - and by the age of ten or so
was making my own books using plastic binders. I began writing
professionally because I got the chance to try my hand at journalism,
which also helped pay for my postgraduate degree in literature.
How many books have you written?
Eight - four of which were published last year, and the next four out
later this month.
Where do you get your ideas from?
I'd like to say, "from the leathery old ideas chest in the dungeon of
my mind", but the real answer is a notch down on the interesting scale.
Writing a history book requires a lot of research, so creative ideas
tend to emerge during that process. The best ideas turn a complex
historical event into an easy-ish read. I find it helps to take
inspiration from writers or film-makers who express their knowledge and
passion for a subject with a healthy dose of irreverence.
Do you have a favourite time and place to write?
The time I like best is early in the morning, because that's when I
feel most industrious - especially after a brisk walk. In practice,
however, I am often working from late in the afternoon until the wee
small hours. The ideal place is on the laptop at the kitchen table
because the fridge, toaster and cafetiere are nearby.
What do you like best about being a writer?
With the 'And All That' books, I really enjoy working closely with an
illustrator. His name is Scoular Anderson, an extremely talented
writer-illustrator of many years' experience, from whom I have learned
a great deal. Perhaps the best thing of all is when I visit a school
and youngsters tell me they have read all my books, then talk about
their favourite bits - and finally demand to know EXACTLY when my next
book is coming out.
What are you working on at the moment?
A couple of books on Irish history for the 'And All That' series. Then
there are other projects in the pipeline, including some fiction -
which I am very excited about.
Advice to aspiring writers?
Keep writing - you can always go back and polish it later.