Karan Vickers-Hulse - Author Life

Karan Vickers-Hulse recently released her new children's book, Surf School. We felt it was time to catch up with the author and find out how life had changed since her book was published.

Did you always dream of becoming an author?

I have always loved books and had a secret dream to write, as I always felt I had a book in me.

What was your first job?

I have always worked with children and started as a nursery nurse before becoming a primary school teacher. Now, I teach others how to teach!

How did you come about writing your book? Was that your intention or did you start writing for fun?

As a teacher, I always used to make up stories for my class and my own children, so I have always loved hearing and telling stories.

I started writing it after my friends and I had a chat about books for children when we were on holiday in the South of France, so the beach was my initial inspiration. I wrote three chapters relatively quickly to begin with and then spent time thinking about my characters and developing the rest of the story. It has always been enjoyable and I look forward to writing.

What was your life like before you became an author?

Pretty much the same as it is now; I have only just started to think of myself as an author – it takes a bit of getting used to.

Did you face any struggles before becoming an author? If so, how did you overcome them?

It was a struggle to find time to write as I have a very busy job and family life but, as I said, I enjoy writing so it was a treat to sit down and write for myself.

Now that you are a published author, how has your life changed, if at all?

It hasn’t really, well not yet. Although I have a couple of book signings and school events coming up, which is exciting!

Can you please describe a typical day in your life now?

I get up early (the alarm is set for 5.45am normally) and go for a run or start my long commute to my work in Bristol from my home outside Cardiff. I spend my day teaching and working with students in school and usually get home about 6pm to spend time with my family.

What is your most memorable moment of your life as an author?

The best moment was seeing the parcel of books arrive – it was thrilling to see my name on the front of a real book. It was also lovely to see the reaction of my friends and family – they are so proud of me.

How would you best sum up your experience with Pegasus Publishers?

Pegasus have been great to work with; responsive to emails and always on hand to answer my (at times, ridiculous) questions. Crossing my fingers that they ask me to write another one – Pip still has plenty of adventures to go on!