Behind the Story: Janet Scrivens, England

Behind the Story August 15, 2011 20:32

The most amazing thing about PenTales stories is the people who share them. With “Behind the Story”, we introduce you to some of the personalities, voices, and stories behind the stories.

1 .What’s your name?

My name is Janet Scrivens

2. Where are you from?

I live right in the centre of England in the county of Leicestershire.

3. What do you do for a living? What do you wish you did for a living?

I was a freelance bookkeeper, and have been retired for the past two years. Since then I have been doing the two things I most enjoy in life: writing and painting, however have not yet earned any money from either. Somehow it doesn’t matter as it isn’t really necessary.

4. What are the ingredients of a good story?

My ingredients for a good story are as follows:-

1. To draw the reader into the tale by sharing your vision.

2. To meet with interesting and engaging characters.

3. To some degree, depending on the pace of the story, to create anticipation.

4. An unexpected twist at the end to make it unforgettable.

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4. Tell us a 100-word story about yourself to help us get to know you better.

I have lived alone for the past ten years. My wonderful family comprises two sons and a daughter, their partners, my four grandsons and two granddaughters. (Not bad considering I was an only child.)

Any spare time is taken up with writing; poetry, travel, short stories and am now working on a novel.

At every other available opportunity I enjoy good food, good wine and good company, shared with family or friends from various groups to which I belong – Grace Dieu Writers’ Circle being the most prominant.

Unfortunately my health is sometimes a problem and does curtail some activity.