Freya Sampson
Author Interview - Freya Sampson
Author of THE LAST CHANCE LIBRARY
Lonely librarian June Jones has never left the sleepy English village where she grew up. Shy and reclusive, the thirty-year-old would rather spend her time buried in books than venture out into the world. But when her library is threatened with closure, June is forced to emerge from behind the shelves to save the heart of her community and the place that holds the dearest memories of her mother. Tosave the place and the books that mean so much to her, June joins a band of eccentric yet dedicated locals in a campaign to keep the library -- and they are determined not to go down without a fight.
Author I draw inspiration from: David Nicholls. His books are so full of warmth and humor, and he has a brilliant eye for the quirks and eccentricities of human behavior. Although I’ll never forgive him for that ending in One Day.
Favorite place to read a book: In bed, rain lashing against the window and a mug of tea to hand. Bliss.
Book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with: Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice.
The moment I knew I wanted to become an author: I’ve loved telling stories since I was a small child, but it wasn’t until I was in my thirties and on maternity leave that I took the plunge and signed up to a creative writing course. The moment I stepped into that room and did my first prompted writing exercise, I knew this was something I wanted to take seriously.
Hardback, paperback, ebook or audiobook: Hardback
The last book I read: My Sweet Girl by Amanda Jayatissa, which is a phenomenally smart and twisty thriller.
Pen & paper or computer: I draft using a pen and post-it notes, but when it comes to writing I use a computer.
Book character I think I’d be best friends with: When I was younger, I dreamed of being best friends with Roald Dahl’s Matilda – she seemed such a kindred spirit, although she was much braver than I ever was. I reckon she’d have grown into a pretty cool adult as well.
If I weren’t an author, I’d be a: TV executive producer. That was my job before I took up writing full-time. I’ve made documentaries on everything from the British Royal Family to eccentric B&B owners and neighbors from hell.
Favorite decade in fashion history: 1920s. I’d loved to have worn a flapper dress.
Place I’d most like to travel: I’ve always wanted to see the northern lights in the Arctic Circle
My signature drink: a good cup of tea
Favorite artist: Matisse
Number one on my bucket list: to be able to write more books and have them published would be wonderful.