To kickstart the TPP Reading Club, we were delighted to meet with one of Ireland’s most popular children’s authors, Sarah Webb.
TPP: How long have you been writing?
SW: I’ve been writing since I was about 10 years old. I was late to reading – I didn’t read fluently until I was almost 10.
TPP: What made you want to become a writer?
SW: Being a reader! Once I could read, there was no stopping me. I practically ate books! I loved Enid Blyton books and the Bunty comic most of all. The first stories I wrote as a child were inspired by Blyton: tales of children on holidays, getting up to all sorts of mischief and adventure.
TPP: What was the inspiration behind The Weather Girls?
SW: In 2018 I watched RTÉ’s Great Lighthouses of Ireland and first heard the remarkable story of Maureen Flavin and the Blacksod D-Day weather reports. I was fascinated. I knew it would make the basis of a great story for children.
TPP: How long did it take for The Weather Girls to go from an idea to a published book?
SW: It took about six years, from the initial idea to the published book.
TPP: Why do you think historical fiction is so important?
SW: By reading historical fiction, children can step into another person’s shoes and see the past come alive. We can learn a lot from the past at any age, but sadly we don’t always do that. I believe good books can help children build empathy.
TPP: What is your number-one tip for aspiring writers?
SW: Read! Read all kinds of books, from comic books to historical fiction. That’s where you will learn what works in a story and what doesn’t work.
TPP: Can you remember the first book you ever read and loved?
SW: The Bunty comic – I was reading the pictures long before I could read the words. I love comics to this day.
TPP: Who are your favourite authors?
SW: I have so many! I love the Irish authors Marita Conlon-McKenna, Judi Curtin, Eoin Colfer, Patricia Forde, Clara Kumagai (her book Catfish Rolling is for older teens), Chris Haughton, Deirdre Sullivan… We have such amazing writers in this country!
TPP: What would you be if you weren’t an author?
SW: I have three other jobs – I’m a children’s bookseller, an event manager, and a creative writing teacher and reviewer – I love the variety!
TPP: What is your favourite book of all time?
SW: Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
TPP: Aside from reading and writing, do you have any hobbies?
SW: I like sailing and I try to get out on the water as much as I can. And I like studying and reading about whales and dolphins, if that can be considered a hobby! They are such fascinating creatures.
TPP: What is your favourite part about being an author?
SW: Talking to children and young people about writing and books. It’s a real privilege!
