Interview with Deirdre Thurston, Author of Caught

I’ve been an observer of people my whole life, always intrigued by the unfolding of everyday events and what those events take on in the eyes and lives of ordinary people.
As well as seeing — and feeling — the angst and the pain, the fragile hopes and dreams, the joys and the frustrations that make up the human condition, I’ve also always been able to see the funny side.

My vantage points have been from the perspective of a daughter, a sister, a wife and a mother, an aunt, a friend and a confidante — I’ve looked at life through many lenses, yet always my own observations have been enriched by the points of view of the other players in those unfolding dramas.

And always inside of me, from the time I was five years old, has lurked a writer — framing my observations and cataloguing them. Storing them up until I was ready to capture them on paper.

At 57, I began crafting my lifetime of observations into sketches and vignettes. Two years later I knew it was time to start sharing my stories with the world.

Visit Deirdre online at http://deirdrethurston.com/

Where did you grow up?

In Auckland, New Zealand

When did you begin writing?

I always loved writing essays at school and scribbled in journals. I began writing seriously about three years ago.

Do you write during the day, at night or whenever you can sneak a few moments?

I prefer writing in the early morning when it is quiet and still.

What is this book about?

Here's the blurb: A collection of short stories, literary sketches and vignettes each capturing a moment in the life of someone a lot like you. Each story delves into human themes: expectation, desire, hope, loss, fear, joy, peace, suffering, redemption. The narrative is filled with subtle irony, humour and touching observations. The stories highlight our era of increasing social disconnection, in which technology is replacing intimacy and life occurs at a pace that challenges people’s ability to stop, observe and interpret their own existence and its relationship with those around them.

It highlights the everyday moment and provides nourishment for the harried soul. The overriding message in Caught is: that any moment in every life can be viewed as worthy of treasuring. Whether that moment is filled with despair or joy; they provide entertaining relief and nourishing benefits.

What inspired you to write it?

Writing is something I have always wanted to do. There came a time in my life that it felt "right" to begin. I love words and language. It can transport us in a second.

Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?

Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Book Depository.

Do you have a video trailer to promote your book? If yes, where can readers find it?

I am having one filmed for YouTube next week. It should be available soon. I will post it to my website.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with aspiring authors everywhere?

Just write. Don't try and please others or think about anything else but sitting down and writing.

What is up next for you?

Writing, writing, writing. And I have itchy feet so a trip somewhere beautiful – perhaps Southern Italy or Paris or…