So, it started out as young adults’ science fiction, involving cloning and genetic engineering. Then, I realised that I was creating way too much work for myself. The book then morphed into a pseudo-historical coming of age story, complete with a character based on Michael King, the historian. This is where it sits at the moment.
Now I am wondering whether I have again bitten off more than I can chew. My general knowledge and my knowledge of New Zealand history in particular leaves a lot to be desired. Of course, any topic can be researched, but I began to worry that my ignorant opinions about race relations and my narrow view of history would somehow leach into the story. (It is for impressionable young minds after all.)
On the other hand, this lack of knowledge is something I am desperately keen to rectify, so it’s the perfect opportunity really.
Something I have started exploring is the idea of the Springbok tour as a kind of watershed in New Zealand race relations. This makes the Waitakere setting so much more pertinent. Of course, any good coming of age story requires watersheds of it’s own and the story that is unfolding has plenty of these!
On another topic, when I started this book, the threat of my grandfather’s death was looming large in our family ended up being echoed in the smoke metaphor, and Aidee’s own fear of her father’s death. The reason I mention this, is that even when you are trying to tell the story of another, your own subconscious has a way of filtering in. It will be intriguing to see what else comes out in the wash during the process.
I will keep you posted. I am in touch with a publisher about this project currently, so will see where it goes.
I better get back to Michael King’s Penguin Illustrated History of New Zealand to carry on my research.
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