Discover how Sarah Forbes Stewart turned her childhood dreams into a literary career.
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From a young age, Sarah Forbes Stewart has been captivated by the world of literature. Growing up in the picturesque town of Stonehaven, she began crafting her own stories, sharing them with friends, and igniting her passion for writing. This early fascination with words has blossomed into a successful career as a journalist and author, marked by her latest release, Aren’t We Lucky, which is set to make waves in the literary world.
Childhood inspirations and early writing
Sarah’s childhood was filled with adventures that fueled her imagination. Frequent visits to Dunnottar Castle and the stunning Aberdeenshire coastline provided a backdrop for her creative endeavors. By the age of eight, she was already penning little books, a testament to her innate storytelling ability.
Despite being reprimanded for distracting her classmates, her determination to write never wavered. Today, she reflects fondly on those formative years, stating, “What a great place to grow up.”
After honing her skills at DC Thomson, where she created engaging content for children’s magazines, Sarah transitioned into the realm of authorship. Her previous works, such as Elspeth Hart and the School for Show-offs, showcase her unique voice and ability to connect with young readers. Sarah’s journey has not been without challenges; she recalls a particularly daunting interview with a young Rihanna, highlighting the unpredictable nature of journalism. Yet, these experiences only strengthened her resolve to pursue her passion for writing.
Encouraging aspiring writers
Sarah is a staunch advocate for aspiring authors, encouraging them to embrace their creativity and share their stories. She emphasizes that writing is for everyone, regardless of age or background. “You can start writing with five minutes a day on the back of an envelope,” she advises. Her belief in the power of storytelling is evident in her encouragement for others to explore their literary aspirations, no matter how daunting the journey may seem.
Aren’t We Lucky: A new chapter
With the release of Aren’t We Lucky, Sarah invites readers into the life of Abby, a 40-year-old navigating the complexities of friendship and self-identity. The book begins with a poignant moment at a funeral, setting the stage for a narrative that explores themes of insecurity and personal growth. Sarah expresses her excitement about the audiobook version, narrated by the talented Nicola Coughlan, stating, “I was over the moon when I heard that the brilliant Nicola Coughlan is narrating Aren’t We Lucky.” This collaboration promises to bring Abby’s story to life in a captivating way.
The passion behind the pen
For Sarah, writing is not just a profession; it is a lifelong passion. She describes herself as a “nerdy bookish kid” who has grown into a “nerdy bookish adult,” still enamored with the written word. Her journey serves as a reminder that the path to becoming an author is often filled with uncertainty, yet it is a pursuit worth undertaking. As she eloquently puts it, “I still think that it’s the best job in the world.” With her unwavering dedication to storytelling, Sarah Forbes Stewart continues to inspire others to follow their literary dreams.
