Here at Olympia, we love hearing from our authors, getting an insight into their lives in writing and asking them what their advice would be to future authors. This week we had the pleasure of interviewing Sean Hanan about his book.
Hold old were you when you first wrote something substantial?
I spent much of my career teaching which naturally involves writing! About thirty years ago, I wrote an economics textbook, with a colleague, which sold in decent numbers until about ten years ago. But that was completely different, both in style and purpose. This book was much more enjoyable to write!
Did you ever have aspirations to become a writer?
Not really. My first book came about because I was working for one of the school examination boards at the time and was asked to contribute. This book is based on some of my daughter’s experiences and has been ‘slow-cooking’ in my brain for years! She encouraged me to write it and then to have it published.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
One author advised me, “…not to know the end until you get there!” For me that works – although I know it doesn’t for some authors.
What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?
Start writing and see what happens! And work in an area that interests you.
What did you find easiest and hardest about writing?
The characters and the main story line were the easiest. Linking the ‘main events’ with other sub-plots that are also compelling, is harder!
Was it faster to write your book or to have it published?
My book was written in two chunks, some years apart. So, in that respect, publishing was shorter.
What was your favourite part of your book to write?
The showjumping competitions – which are naturally exciting, especially with younger riders involved!
Do you have any plans to publish more work?
Yes. I have three further books in different stages of development. The next one will follow most of the main characters in my first book, as they get older and compete at higher levels.
If you could review Olympia Publishers in just a few words, what would they be?
The people at Olympia Publishers have been helpful and supportive throughout the process. It has made publication much more straightforward than I had anticipated!
