Writers on Reading: Victoria Hislop

http://www.victoriahislop.com/

British author Victoria Hislop has written three full-length novels, The Island, The Return, and The Thread, as well as several shorter stories, her books are bestsellers across the globe, not least in Greece where two of these tales are set. She may not be as prolific as some authors, but her legions of fans do not have too long to wait- her next book The Sunrise , set amongst the mysterious deserted city of Famagusta, is due out in September 2014.

What is the first book you remember reading?
The VERY first book was about “Janet and John” - they were the characters in the basic readers that we had at school (this was in the early 1960’s, and I think the techniques for teaching literacy have changed a lots since then). I recall that they were extremely dull! Then there was lots of Enid Blyton (and for all the criticisms about her books - they were a brilliant way to set up an addiction to reading) - and after that Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfield. Then it was to Wuthering Heights - and that was SO exciting. It really ignited my love of reading - because when we meet the characters, they are children - so although it is not perceived as a children’s book (and indeed it is about some very grown-up themes!), as a twelve year old I was drawn in, because the characters were my age! I think it is an ideal book for adolescents.

What effect does being an author have on you as a reader?
Great question! I think it makes you more critical (if a book is lazily written, then I get cross and put it down), but if it’s good, then I am impressed and happy - and want to write to the author to tell them how brilliant they are!

Are there any books you can read again and again?
Yes. "The Hours" by Michael Cunningham which is relatively brief but thematically very deep. And "I am David" by Anne Holm - which probably sits in the children’s section but could easily be an adult book - about a child who escapes from a concentration camp. These are both wonderful books. And “Wuthering Heights” - which is my desert island book.

Are there any genres that you wouldn’t choose to read?
Chick Lit.

What is the current book on your nightstand/coffee table?
"Cain" by Jose Saramago - it’s a retelling of the Old Testament by the Nobel prizewinner - and translated from Portuguese by the most incredible woman called Margaret Jull Costa who also translates Javier Marias from Spanish. "Cain" is funny, subversive and totally original - some might find its questioning of God’s omniscience blasphemous - but I think it’s a brilliant book.