Antony Lishak

Q: What were you like at school?

I like to think that I was a brilliant student who shone like a star – but in reality I was just another spotty kid with far too much to say for himself (not much changed there then!)

Q: What did you want to be when you were a child?

I used to dream of playing for Arsenal – even when it was obvious that I was useless at football (again, things haven’t really changed there either!)

Q: Which three words describe you best?

Handsome, hairy and humble.

Q: What is your favourite word?

Yes (when offered a slice of creamy chocolate cake)

Q: What makes you cringe?

Memories of embarrassing moments.

Q: What are you afraid of?

Harm coming to my children.

Q: When did you last have a really good laugh?

This morning, when I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror.

Q: What is your most treasured possession?

My sanity - although you won't believe it if you met me!

Q: What do you do as a hobby?

Reading, going to the cinema, walking and supporting Arsenal.

Q: What strange habits do you have?

Far too many to admit to here.

Q: What’s your favourite food?

Succulently cooked lamb.

Q: What do you day dream about?

Everything and anything.

Q: What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve done?

Sunk a car on Southport beach - don’t ask.

Q: What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?

Film director.

Q: Do you feel younger or older than your current age?

Younger – of course!.

Q: If you could meet one person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Nelson Mandela - but I’m sure I wouldn't be able to actually say anything.

Q: What quality do you most admire in a person?

Honesty.

Q: What is the most interesting place you have ever visited?

Jerusalem.

Q: What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?

"Listen to what others have to say – then do what you think is right..."

Q: What would you most like to change about yourself?

I really should be thinner.

Q: What has life taught you?

To be ready to grab opportunities when they present themselves.

Q: How long have you been a writer?

My first book was published in 1988.

Q: Was there a specific moment in your life when you decide to become a writer?

I used to love making my own books as a child – so I suppose it was then.

Q: Where do you do your writing?

All the time – in my head. Also in my garden office.

Q: What are the best and worst things about being an author?

Best – being able to share my stories with so many people. Worst – never having enough time.

Q: Where do you get your greatest ideas from?

From overheard conversations.

Q: What do you do to combat “writers’ block”?

Ignore it.

Q: What was your favourite book as a child?

Elidor, by Alan Garner.

Q: What book do you wish you had written?

His Dark Materials Trilogy by Philip Pullman.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

No writer EVER got it right first time.