How did you come up with the idea of a character like Rose, who lives among books in the Herefordshire countryside?
Rose has been a big reader all her life and as a child spent many happy days in her local library. People could never pronounce her real name so she invented Rose English. If she ever became a published author, she would then be the English, Rose on the library shelf.
Rose's house is described as having "wall-to-wall books." What role do books and reading play in her life, and why is this such a central theme for her character?
Rose is a Read~a~holic devouring books across all genre, she is a collector a hoarder with books doubled up on shelves and any other accommodating space. A shy, gentle child, the characters in books were always her friends and her escape from reality.
Can you tell us more about Rose's preference for a simple and quiet life? How does she find contentment in solitude while being surrounded by books and characters?
Rose had very few real friends, preferring not only the company of books but animals too. She loves nature and the outdoors (though not in a sporty way) just the beauty that surrounds her. The peace and quiet to sit and read a book. If it is good, then that book will draw her easily into its pages. Reality and fantasy easily merge, worlds of wonder at the turn of a page.
The mention of the "Leaning Tower of Paperbacks" is intriguing. What does this symbolize for Rose, and how does it reflect her personality or life philosophy?
It does not really symbolize anything other than she has so many books piled high they remind her of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. (However, she does like the symbolism of the Leaning Tower and it’s becoming a universal symbol of hope and perseverance, overcoming challenges and resilience.)
Rose is described as having eclectic tastes, including a love for theatre and the arts. How do these interests shape her character, and do they play a significant role in the story?
Rose is a dreamer with her love of books inspiring research in lots of different areas. Her love of art started with library books full of fascinating pieces. She always aspired to seek out many things that she read about. Often visiting museums and galleries. Fairytales often led to visits to the ballet or theatre.
Working as a school librarian seems to be a pivotal part of Rose's life. Can you share more about her experiences in this role and how it impacts her perspective on books and storytelling?
Working as a school librarian was her greatest joy, sharing a love of books and reading with children. Often finding shy silent children like she remembered being once herself. But then there were those on the other end of the spectrum, the sometimes-naughty kids who were often absent from school. They would visit the library when their friends were not around (up to mischief most likely) they would hide away in a corner with a book. It was such a joy to see and she encouraged, helped and recommended stories she hoped they would love and most did.
What led Rose to transition from her beloved job as a school librarian to another chapter in her life? Can you provide any hints or insights into what this new chapter entails?
Sadly, there were people who did not approve of the support Rose gave to some of the wayward children. In a kind of twisted way, they believed the kids were being rewarded and should be punished for not attending school. But some of those kids who Rose encouraged to read, went on to college and would often drop little notes of thanks when they moved on. Rose was pushed to the limit and felt it time to move on herself. Now working in a very different library (definitely not so much fun) issuing medical equipment in the NHS instead of books.
Miss Ruby Heart, the ruby King Charles Spaniel who reviews children's books, is an adorable addition to Rose's life. How did this character come about, and what role does Miss Ruby Heart play in the story?
Rose discovered Miss Ruby Heart when in her local library. She was reading a book about Queen Victoria and her love of dogs, especially one of her favourites a King Charles Spaniel called ‘Dash’. With technology advancing Rose now had the internet at her fingertips and discovered a Victorian Pet Cemetery in London. One of the images showed a grave for a little dog called ‘Miss Ruby Heart’ so there was her new muse. In an early adult short story Ruby is a Christmas gift for the wife of a character in the tale. Sadly, the wife lost her life along with the little puppy. From that story moving forward Miss Ruby Heart became the Ghost of Christmas Past in a retelling of the Charles Dickens Classic ‘A Christmas Carol’ but for kids. Check out ‘Young Ebenezer’ and now the new picture book ‘A Christmas Carol with Grandfather Time’.
(The real Ruby is a little soft toy/mascot. Sadly, Rose does not have a real dog as she works full time and it is not fair to leave a little dog home alone all day.)
Can you share any favorite quotes or passages from the book that encapsulate Rose's character or the themes you explore through her story?
‘There will be no jolly Christmas cheer this year. The gloomy little cottage is not even bedecked with a solitary sprig of holly; the only similarity to last year is the soft aroma of the slowly burning apple-wood logs.’ The Magic of Grandfather Time (a story of love and loss, solitude and loneliness)
Rose is inspired by many things and stories from the past feature strongly.
‘The intricately carved, flame mahogany long-case, now dull, and softly muted by the accumulation of dust, still wraps protectively around the golden pendulum heart.’ The Magic of Grandfather Time (the quote is about the stately grandfather clock, a big feature in several of the stories by Rose. Once again sharing themes of love and loss. In the children’s books we see Grandfather Time helping others to mend their ways #SharingIsCaring in the new picture book.
As the author, what message or emotion do you hope readers take away from Rose's story in "Living on England's Green and Pleasant Land"?
Rose is content in her lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle. Living on the edge of the countryside where walks amongst nature may often inspire stories or poems. The lush green of the land is really quite pleasant, a true joy to behold even in the wet rainy weather Rose finds enjoyment in Mother Nature.
Writing can be a solitary pursuit. Do you have any writing routines or rituals that help you stay motivated and focused?
Rose is mainly a solitary soul as mentioned before she is a bit of a dreamer without any set writing routines. She writes mainly as a hobby or when the mood takes her. However, Rose has been known to take part in NaNoWrimo (National November Writing Month writing a set number of words each day for the whole month the aim to get the bare bones of a novel down in writing).
What advice would you give to aspiring authors who dream of getting their work published?
Take pleasure in what you write, reach out to other indie authors (like, follow and share on their social media) you will be surprised the knowledge and help that is out there. Rose was encouraged to enter a short story competition and her story won first prize it evolved into stories featuring Grandfather Time. It was very difficult thinking about sending to a publishing company so with a little guidance she self-published.
What message or takeaway do you hope readers find in your books?
The main message Rose hopes children will take away is that of ‘just be yourself’ and don’t forget that #SharingIsCaring.
Do you have any writing projects in the works? Can you share any details or hints about what your readers can look forward to next?
Rose is working on Book 3 in the ‘Young Ebenezer’ series this time ‘Baby Louisa’ About sibling rivalry. Eb has been an only child for sometime and as you probably know he was not very caring and he really hated sharing (in the beginning).
Rose is also considering adding illustrations to the little pocket book ‘Bartholomew Drake’. A lovely book reviewer thought it needed pictures and to aim the story at a younger reading age. She loves feedback from reviewers be it positive or negative, it helps her improve on her story writing.
What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far? What are some highlights?
The AllAuthor community is wonderful, seeing the seasonal mock ups and the Book Gifs really lifts an author’s spirit. Thank you for all your support.
