5 minutes with HEIDI SWAIN
The author of “The Summer Fair” shares her inspiration for a story that explores the importance of being true to your passions, at any age.
Beth’s the latest character to appear in your Nightingale Square series. What was your inspiration?
I wanted to write a book which emphasised the importance of following our hearts and making our dreams come true. Beth’s story gave me the opportunity to do that. We shouldn’t abandon dreams when they don’t follow the pattern we expect. I also wanted to introduce more older characters into the Nightingale Square series and give them equal space on the page with the younger neighbours.
Music is a constant theme in the story. What is your favourite summertime song?
It’s not strictly a summer song, but “Always Like This” by Bombay Bicycle Club gives me a great summer vibe thanks to their 2014 Glastonbury set.
Grow Well Gardens in Nightingale Square are described as a secret escape. Where is your happy place?
I love the sanctuary of my garden but Wells Next the Sea on the Norfolk coast is my top spot. It’s beautiful and full of happy childhood memories.
The story centres around two summer fairs. Why do you think we enjoy a fair so much?
There’s something incredibly romantic about strolling around a fair on a hot afternoon. It’s a celebration of traditions and I think that sense of nostalgia is what we enjoy most. It certainly brings out the Larkin in me!
Ever entered anything yourself? If so, did you win?
No, I haven’t, but I do enjoy admiring the makes, bakes and creations other people submit. While living in Scotland, my ex-husband, who was a head gardener with the National Trust, was asked to help judge the fruit and veg at the local village show. He was terrified!
There were so many rules, not to mention local rivalries!
What’s the best raffle prize you’ve ever won?
Years ago I won a huge wooden hand-turned model of a castle complete with turrets, towers and drawbridge. My son adored it and used to imagine Harry Potter and Hedwig living inside.
Old folk play a big part in the story. What do you think they have to teach us about life?
That life is worth living at every age! I find the obsession with anti-ageing so frustrating. If we’re blessed to live to become old, embrace it!
Relationships with older people are life-enhancing. Nothing betters life experience and accumulated wisdom. Respect that, nurture inter-generational friendships and your life will be the fuller for it!