Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an author from Derry, a small town in Northern Ireland. Currently, I only wrote one book, ‘The Boy Who Saw In Colours, ‘ and it’s set to be released on May 8th for pre-order. I’m a journalism student, so facts are pivotal. I spent over five years researching and writing my novel, even going as far as learning German.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Boy Who Saw In Colours follows the story of a young boy, Josef, growing up amid Nazi uprising. When his family is torn apart, and he and his brother are sent to an elite public school, Josef learns to express himself in the only way he knows how- painting.
The inspiration stemmed from a photo I saw of a young boy crying. When I looked into it further, I realised that he was German and in the SS at sixteen. I wondered what had he seen? What did he go through?
A lot of these children can be villainised, but I don’t think they deserved to be taken in by hatred. They were victims.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not particularly. I enjoy writing in the library, as it’s the only place I can let my thoughts wander.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The two authors that come to mind are Louisa May Alcott and Harper Lee. When I think of these women, I think about power. Both wrote about topics that a lot of people say women shouldn’t write about. They challenged societal norms and went against the grain. They had a story to tell and weren’t going to let anyone stop them.
What are you working on now?
My heart is still very much with The Boy Who Saw In Characters, but I am working on a novel set in my own hometown.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find Twitter to be the most useful site for promoting. You can connect with people who are interested in the topics you write.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write. Don’t write for your friends, the critics or even a particular audience. Write for yourself. The right novel will find people when they need it the most.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write simple stories about complex characters.
I think about that often.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading All The Light We Cannot See, which is a historical fiction novel I somehow missed!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m working on a new novel set amid ‘the troubles’ in Northern Ireland. It will be very interesting to write about the history of my hometown.
Author Websites and Profiles
Lauren Robinson Website
Lauren Robinson’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account