Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Now in my late seventies it would seem that I have come to writing stories for children rather late in life. Until the mid 1970’s I had not written a complete story and it was not so much inspiration as it was a necessity. During one our many seaside family holidays in Great Yarmouth my five year old son made four or five new friends while playing on the beach. A sudden downpour drove the kids to take shelter in our beach tent. My wife was trying to read and was disturbed by the noisy kids. I was ‘instructed’ to keep them quiet. “How?” I asked. “Read them a story or something!” I hadn’t brought any children’s books down to the beach. “Well make one up then.”
I had noticed that the smallest child in the group was being picked upon. “Do this” or “Do that,” or “bring that” or “take this.” It amounted to bullying behaviour. My heart bled. My own boy was involved. So the hero of my story had to be a small boy with bright red hair. He looked different and unknown to the children he was different for a very good reason. He had been orphaned when his alien parents were stricken by Earth’s coughs and colds. The red haired guy who was different overcame every obstacle in his path and a strong inner strength shone through. Jimmy excelled at every turn and became s hero with friends on both sides of the stars. He numbered among his friends the four witch guardians of Earth and Lord Oron, The Weatherman, joined Jimmy in many an adventure.
The only problem was that during the next shower Jimmy had to become involved in more and more adventures. And so Jimmy’ Crikey’s adventures began.
I am in process of completing the fourth adventure and have also published another three children’s stories all tending towards fantasy.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The forthcoming Jimmy Crikey story might be titled:
“Jimmy Crikey’s Adventures: The Emerald Lake.”
Where did the inspiration come from? I don’t know! I pick up my pen (figuratively) and began composing. The words either flow or they don’t, which is a rarity. Some authors plan out a plot chapter by chapter. I am not that clever. But from somewhere in the ether comes inspiration.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Other than relying on an unknown source of inspiration I don’t consider I have any unusual habits.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
In children’s writings I enjoyed reading Enid Blighton to both my boys, with a dash of Rupert the Bear.
Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter are long term adult favourites as is almost everything written by Wilbur Smith, starting with When the Lion Feeds. Latterly Baldacci has provided several excellent adventure storie. When I want a light holiday read I turn to Jim Pattinson and his never ending string of co-writers.
What are you working on now?
The launch of the fourth Jimmy Crikey story. Thereafter I have a dream that I can make my ‘life story’ and interesting read: Consorting with the Enemy
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
FB groups, Book Goodies and All Author primarily of choice.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Develop a thick skin tgo prepare you for the inevitable knock backs BUT never give up. Keep writing, whatever.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be true to yourself but don’t dismiss advice from outside your world.
What are you reading now?
J Pattinson
What’s next for you as a writer?
After considering forgoing I may write a sequel to Romney Hole,
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Bible, Gibbon’s Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire, Lord of the Rings,
Author Websites and Profiles
Wallace Briggs Website
Wallace Briggs Amazon Profile