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Anna James, a British author and journalist, made her debut in middle-grade fantasy literature with the acclaimed six-book Pages & Co. series, which debuted in the U.S. in 2019 with The Bookwanderers. Her latest project, Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment, is the first installment in a planned four-book series. It introduces readers to a magical island where every inhabitant has a unique form of magic linked to one of the seasons, and a select few, known as Enchanters, possess the extraordinary capability to harness all four seasonal magics. In a recent interview with PW, James shared insights into her passion for fantasy and her latest literary venture.
Can you trace your interest in fantasy to your own childhood?
Absolutely! Fantasy literature has captivated me for as long as I can remember. One of my fondest memories is my mother reading The Hobbit to me when I was far too young to grasp its complexities. I was also enamored with Eva Ibbotson’s enchanting tales, which I devoured repeatedly. As I grew older, I transitioned to the works of iconic authors like Tolkien and Ursula K. Le Guin. My passion for fantasy has always been a constant in my life.
Did this affection for fantasy continue as you started writing?
Yes, diving into the realm of fantasy was a natural progression for me as a writer. While Pages & Co. reflects my deep appreciation for the world of books, Chronicles of Whetherwhy allows me to explore my fascination with fantasy as a genre. The inspiration for The Bookwanderers struck me organically, fueled by the wonder of meeting beloved fictional characters.
What attracted you to create fantasy for a middle-grade audience?
Previously, I worked as a school librarian, which profoundly shaped my perspective. Interacting with young readers aged 11 to 18 reinforced my belief that every potential reader simply needs to find the right book. It’s a privilege to guide young readers toward discovering literature that resonates with them, which can significantly enrich their lives. This experience drives my motivation as an author.
After concluding Pages & Co., how challenging was it to develop the new world of Whetherwhy?
As a young reader, I was always enchanted by novels set in immersive worlds. With Chronicles of Whetherwhy, I aimed to create my own magical universe, which was both exhilarating and daunting. Constructing an entirely new world required careful thought and planning, especially since I have a poor sense of direction!
How did you overcome those challenges?
I received invaluable assistance from David Wyatt, the illustrator for the series. Sharing my rough hand-drawn map of Whetherwhy was a humbling experience due to my lack of spatial awareness. However, when David provided me with his beautifully crafted map of the island, it transformed my understanding of the world I was building.
The magical abilities of Whetherwhy’s residents are portrayed as inherently inclusive. What inspired this idea?
As I progress in my writing, I notice recurring themes in my works. In Pages & Co., not every character is classified as a bookwanderer, yet I emphasize that all readers share that identity. Inclusion is crucial in my writing. In Whetherwhy, magic exists in various forms, and the idea that each character can discover their own strength is central to their journey.
You toured the U.S. in 2019 for The Bookwanderers and will return to promote The Age of Enchantment. Do you find that American and British audiences respond similarly to your books?
Reading is a universal experience, and I believe there are core similarities among readers across cultures. During my U.S. tour, I noticed that American readers are particularly curious about the British elements of my stories, which adds an exciting layer to my interactions with them.
One of my most cherished moments during my tour for Pages & Co. was when readers told me they had started reading classic novels mentioned in the story, such as Anne of Green Gables. This connection brings me immense joy and satisfaction as a writer and a former librarian. It’s heartening to know that young readers are engaging with literature that inspired me as a child, contributing to the enduring cycle of storytelling.
Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment by Anna James is set to release on April 29, published by Flamingo, at a price of $18.99. ISBN 978-0-593-69190-8.
Source
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