An Interview with Amy Smith
Amy J. Smith currently lives and works in Surrey as a primary school teacher. The Magic Emporium is Amy’s debut novel.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
A trip to York inspired the magic hidden inside The Magic Emporium. I felt its enchanted atmosphere as I travelled down each cobbled street. I wanted to craft a book that captured the same energy.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title was inspired by an antique shop in Hampton Court. As I passed the word ‘emporium,’ I knew it would be perfect for my book.
Describe your dream book cover.
My dream book cover became a reality thanks to my friend and illustrator, Laura.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
To create the magical world of the emporium, what is more magical than Hedwig’s Theme in Harry Potter. The song Golden, featured in KPop Demon Hunters, reminds me of Alec’s character development.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
At the moment, I am reading The 13-Storey Treehouse series by Andy Griffiths. I am enjoying the comedic aspects.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
Before becoming an author and teacher, I once worked as a Christmas elf. Making sure there are enough toys is a super important job.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
The inspiration to write a book came from wanting to share a reading experience with students in the classes I taught and to inspire them to write their own books.
Where is your favorite place to write?
Out of all the beautiful places in this world to write, I enjoy writing looking out to the sea. With this view, I feel most inspired.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
If I could give advice to my past self, it would be that yes, some days you will only write one sentence, and that is okay. This might be the best sentence you have ever written.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
The message that I want people to think about after reading The Magic Emporium is, ‘What do you feel is magical in this world?’
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