REALITY BITES

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your April Star Interview, ‘Keeping it real,’ with Tina Baker. The piece itself couldn’t have been better titled given that I found Tina to be such a refreshingly real individual. Perhaps the most poignant comment for me, came towards the end of the interview when Tina advised not to stop or second guess yourself when writing. Her choice of words, ‘Just do it. Loads of it will be shit, so what? I make myself do a bit every day,’ really struck a chord and reminded me very much of the Hemingway quote about all first drafts being shit.

Until recently, doubt had often plagued my thoughts and I had scrapped more first chapters than I cared to count in my search for perfection. However, over the past few months I’ve been more determined to overcome this mindset.

Now I make myself write a little every day regardless of the quality as I try to build my word count. Not only have I found this to be a truly cathartic experience but dare I say my writing is improving too!

Thank you for another fantastic and motivational read. JUSTINE MACHIN

Preston, Lancashire

An inspirational and relatable star interview with Tina Baker. I remember the energetic Tina from daytime TV, back in the day, first coming across Tina the writer during Covid times and an online virtual book tour – an introduction to Call Me Mummy, an authentic, addictive story that hooked me from the start.

I’ve just embarked on a BA Hons in Creative Writing in my mid 40s. As I won’t suddenly be given more time to write and study, I have to make that time.

Make Me Clean sounds gripping and has earned its place on my to-be-read list. I’m particularly interested in Elsie, as I am also working on a character with dementia.

Thank you, Tina, for your realistic attitude to writing, that has inspired me to just get on with it.

HELEN WIDDOWSON

Harrogate, North Yorkshire