Lucky 13 Interview With Katharine Orton

1 – Can you start by telling us a little about your latest book?

It’s called Nevertell and it sees a girl who was born in a Soviet gulag escape with her best friend, to be pursued by a vengeful sorceress and her pack of shadow wolves. It’s written for children aged 9-12, but really it’s for anyone who enjoys that sort of thing, and it’s out with Walker Books in November this year.

2 – Are you a plotter or a panster?

I used to be a major pantser but I tied myself in knots doing that. Now I like to plot until I get bored of plotting, and then pants the rest.

3 – Savoury or sweet?

Hmm. Sweet probably.

4 – Three books to a desert Island. Go!

Circe by Madeline Miller Catch 22 by Joseph Heller The Hunting of The Snark by Lewis Carroll.

5 – Star Wars or Star Trek?

Star Wars.

6 – If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I had this conversation a long time ago and for some reason came up with having an indestructible toe? I wish I could remember why, because honestly it doesn’t sound that great. But I haven’t been able to get it out of my head since. So... an indestructible toe... I guess?

7 – You’re a professional wrestler. What would your ring name be?

The Katastrophe. Bringer of chaos!

8 – If you could live anywhere in the world, and take everything that you love with you, where would you choose?

Kyoto in Japan.

9 - Your favourite karaoke song?

I’ve only ever done karaoke when I’ve been too drunk to remember. So I have no idea.

10 – One piece of advice to an aspiring writer?

If you struggle with a lack of confidence, which I think many of us writers tend to, I think the best thing you can do is to remember in those bad moments to be kind to yourself, the way you would be kind to someone else who was having a hard time. And keep going.

11 – You win £1 million, but you must give half to charity. Which charity do you chose, and what do you do with the rest of the money?

Amnesty International, because they do great work for human rights all over the world. I’d love to give some to Hope Not Hate too. The rest... I’d like to make sure all my family were sorted, and then maybe go somewhere nice.

12 – Horror films, yes or no?

BIG YES.

13 - What are you currently working on?

I have some more middle grade fantasy in the works, which I’m really excited about.