Jane Hardstaff
Nick Bell
Jane Hardstaff is a TV producer who lives in London, England, near the River Thames. When she is not working as a TV producer, Jane enjoys writing novels for young readers.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame. I remember this was the first time I cried reading a book, feeling the sadness and joy of homesick Mole as he senses his home beneath the snow.
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to find them, One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them. In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie.” From The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
J.R.R. Tolkien, Harper Lee, and Philip Pullman
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
For me, there’s nothing more magical than that blurry place between the real and the imagined. I remember the feeling as a child, of wanting to believe – of willing the imaginary to be real and losing myself in a story. That’s what makes me want to write.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
My advice for future authors is to read lots and write as often as you can. Also, use your own experiences and memories to help you think and feel like your characters. A little empathy can go a long way.
