Aspiring Writer Finnian Heay

At the Young NZ Writers annual Day Out in June we caught up with Otumetai College student Angus Heay, who kindly agreed to answer some questions for us.
Hi Angus – thanks for joining us.
 
This is the first time you’ve attended one of our workshops. Why did you decide to come?
—I’ve always loved writing. I tried writing a fantasy book, but it really wasn’t good enough to be published, so. I thought I’d come to learn some techniques for writing better – especially some tips about how to write characters; I’m not so good on character.
 

You would have enjoyed our session on Characters and Conflict by Jean Gilbert and William Dresden, then?
—Yes, definitely. I liked the other sessions, too. It was helpful to learn how to write yourself into a short story too; getting an idea for a book using setting, theme, and personal experiences. Sometimes, it can be really hard to think of anything.
 
What about competitions? Will you enter some now?
Yes, I think I’ll try and enter more competitions.
 
What’s your favourite genre to read?
—Fantasy. Because so many things can happen with fantasy. You can write what you want without limits. It’s intriguing and captivating.
 
What about your favourite books? What authors do you like to read?
—My favourite all time book is Vile Bodies by Evelyn Waugh. It’s classic 1920s comedy. My favourite writer of all time is JK Rowling. Her world building is so amazing; believable and quirky. I also like to read books by Michael Grant. His characters are so believable and realistic with so many different layers.
 
Thanks for stopping by to chat with us Angus and for attending our Day Out. We hope to see more of your writing in the future.

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