Anne
asked
Helen Simonson:
You have written a wonderful, wonderful book. I just finished reading "The Summer Before the War" and I don't think I can even articulate all the ways I loved this book. Kudos. Dare I ask what your next project is?
Helen Simonson
Dear Anne,
I see this got flagged for spoiler alert but not to fear. I shall reveal nothing! I have to admit that I've discovered the more I talk about my next book the less I write of it. So I'm afraid Anne that I need to keep mum, put rear end on office chair and type faster! I'd love to get you a new book in faster time than my two prior novel that each took over 5 years to produce. But this annoying thing called 'creative process' has its grip on me, so we shall have to see how it lets me work this third time. But I am working!
I see this got flagged for spoiler alert but not to fear. I shall reveal nothing! I have to admit that I've discovered the more I talk about my next book the less I write of it. So I'm afraid Anne that I need to keep mum, put rear end on office chair and type faster! I'd love to get you a new book in faster time than my two prior novel that each took over 5 years to produce. But this annoying thing called 'creative process' has its grip on me, so we shall have to see how it lets me work this third time. But I am working!
More Answered Questions
Adriana Delgado
asked
Helen Simonson:
I have to say, The Summer Before The War has now become one of my favorite books along with The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper. I really loved how you created characters that just came alive and weaved such a great descriptive story. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and this book certainly details the loss and horrors of war but also how love can be born even in the most difficult times. (?)
Linda
asked
Helen Simonson:
I just finished The Summer before the War, and oh my gosh. I knew it was going to be bittersweet, but how did you capture such a clear picture of that view from Rye, and the absolute tranquility of an English garden on a summer's day? I am sure I will take myself there many times in my mind's eye, such a sense of peace. I loved Major Pettigrew too (I gave it a starred review for Library Journal!)!
Penny Farley
asked
Helen Simonson:
Helen, I have, like previous letters to you have revealed, loved both your books and am already looking forward to your third, whenever that might be! But mainly I am writing to you because of a remark you made in an earlier interview....."I have an ever present longing for England." Yes?? I am an ex-pat of many years and I couldn't have said it better myself! Thank you! Happy Independence Day America!
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